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How to support a new trans person at sportsclub (lemmy.zip)
submitted 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago) by to c/mtf@lemmy.blahaj.zone
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Hello! Next week there's a trans person joining my club for training. Because I´m not trans and don't have anyone close to me that I know is trans I was wondering if I could get some suggestions on how to support them. We've never had a trans person here so this is might be kinda new for lots of people. I know some general stuff like I should probably ask them for their pronouns and which changing room they wanna use (we only got one for men and one for women, so I was thinking if they're not comfortable they can use the restroom for people with a disability thats right around the corner in the same building). So aside from that, any suggestions?

PS I know this is a transfem community and I don't know the identity of this person but this was the largest trans community I could find, if theres a better place to ask lemme know!

Edit: I don't wanna share which sport exactly cus of privacy but its not a team sport so at least at training there won't be any separation based on gender

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[–] 16 points 1 week ago* (2 children)

I am guessing more than anything, they are worried about being treated less-than by someone. Here's a few of my thoughts:

  • Just smile and be friendly when you meet them. Not only will this alleviate some concerns right away, it may have been a while since someone treated them that way.
  • Getting pronouns is obvious. I have an unpopular opinion which is to include your assumption in the question. (ie if someone seems to be mtf, asking "do you prefer she/her, or something else?") There's a good chance that this will communicate their presentation is having the intended effect.
  • Check in periodically. If you meet weekly, maybe at the end of each session. If you meet a few times a week, maybe ever week or two ask how they are doing. Ask if things are going well, if they are getting along well with people, etc.
  • Set the expectation early that they can talk to you if something isn't working for them.
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  • [–] [S] 3 points 1 week ago

    Thanks!

    Check in periodically. If you meet weekly, maybe at the end of each session. If you meet a few times a week, maybe ever week or two ask how they are doing. Ask if things are going well, if they are getting along well with people, etc. Good one, will do!

    Set the expectation early that they can talk to you if something isn't working for them. Ill also make sure they know the dedicated person everyone can talk to confidentially (idk the English translation lol)

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