Leveling the Playing Field for Non-binary and Transgender Young Athletes: Special Considerations When Caring for This Population

Sports participation has been shown to positively affect the health and well-being of our youth population, but not all athletes are treated the same depending on their sexual orientation or gender identity. As treating clinicians, it is important to understand this ever-evolving topic and the special considerations that come with this under-served population of athletes when providing care. This course will give an overview and history of inclusion rules within youth sports, the NCAA, and professional sports, and highlight the current rules and regulations that affect transgender and gender-nonconforming youth athletes. It will also focus on terminology used, medical considerations, and the importance of protecting the mental health of this population. This course is directed toward both the Physical Therapist and Physical Therapist Assistant and any care providers that work with a pediatric population.