USA Fencing Faces Backlash Over Transgender Athlete Policy
USA Fencing chair Damien Lehfeldt faced intense scrutiny at a federal hearing regarding the organization’s transgender athlete policy.
In a recent federal hearing titled ‘Unfair Play: Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports,’ USA Fencing chair Damien Lehfeldt was grilled by Republican lawmakers over the organization’s policies on transgender athletes. The controversy escalated after fencer Stephanie Turner was disqualified for refusing to compete against a transgender opponent, sparking widespread debate and calls for leadership changes within USA Fencing.
Turner, who knelt in protest during a tournament, expressed her intent to push for resignations among USA Fencing’s leadership, particularly those who have made public comments she perceives as harassing and humiliating to women. Despite her efforts, USA Fencing issued a statement to Fox News Digital, standing firm on their current leadership and policy, stating no changes are under consideration.
Lehfeldt, who was subpoenaed to testify, faced criticism not only for USA Fencing’s policies but also for his personal social media posts. Before the hearing, Lehfeldt had controversially responded ‘yeah’ to a question about disadvantaging female fencers, a stance he later admitted needed a more nuanced explanation. USA Fencing clarified that Lehfeldt’s comments were personal and not reflective of their policy, expressing regret for any confusion caused.
The hearing drew sharp exchanges, with lawmakers like Rep. Tim Burchett questioning Lehfeldt’s willingness to let his daughter compete against a transgender athlete, and Rep. Nancy Mace challenging Lehfeldt’s masculinity over his organization’s gender policies. Turner, however, remains unsatisfied with mere apologies, demanding a change in policy and a return to truthfulness in discussions about sports and gender.
In response to the controversy, USA Fencing announced potential changes to its gender eligibility policy, stating that any new policy would require athletes to compete according to their biological sex in USA Fencing-sanctioned tournaments. This move comes as the organization faces pressure from oversight bodies and federal legislation.
As the debate continues, Turner has stepped away from competitive fencing, unwilling to face officials she believes are against her. The situation highlights ongoing tensions and the complex discussions surrounding transgender athletes in sports.