The Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) recently announced the start of a one-year pilot project called “Open Division”. During this one year test period, the association is determining if there is a long-term interest in games where people of any gender can participate in any gender play. The program is open to all teams and does not require WFTDA membership. There is no fee to participate in the program. The Open Division would operate alongside the traditional Main Division.

According to WFTDA, if the program is successful, the association would consider creating an official Open Division, the inaugural season for that division from June, 2026 through the end of July, 2027 with subsequent seasons lasting two years each.

WFTDA points out to their leagues that the establishment of the Open Division is not intended to segregate transgender skaters. WFTDA already has a comprehensive affirming policy that permits skaters who identify as women, a member of the trans umbrella (including trans men), two spirit and those with intersex conditions to participate in sanctioned play in their main division.

Teams wishing to take part in this Open Division test can get more information on the program, including requirements as well as the forms that need to be filed at the WFTDA website.