Gwen, as usual Jeremy presents an interesting and informative issue for us to chew on.
As poker is the only “sport” in which I play or have any knowledge, my ability to respond is rather limited.
In my game, there are virtually no physical limitations whatsoever. Gender is simply not a factor in terms of who is allowed to do what within the confines of the game and its rules. Underrating a player because of his or her gender, disability, ethnicity, sexuality, etc., is a disastrous mistake I have seen new players make over and over again.
The cards simply don’t give a fuck . . . and neither does a skilled player.