The Rise of Inclusive Rugby: A Safe Space for LGBTQ+ Players

When Sam Biscoe established the Colchester Kings in 2022, he envisioned a rugby club that represented the LGBTQ+ community. Initially anticipating a small turnout, he was pleasantly surprised when around 30 individuals showed up for the inaugural training session at Colchester Rugby Club in Essex. This marked the beginning of the first inclusive rugby club in the East of England. Fast forward four years, and the Kings now boast a community of approximately 120 members, including players, coaches, and dedicated supporters, while proudly being affiliated with International Gay Rugby (IGR).

The popularity of inclusive rugby is gaining momentum, with new teams emerging in both Essex and Norfolk. This weekend, a fresh squad will convene in Cambridge, further expanding the network of supportive rugby clubs in the region. According to IGR, these clubs aim to create opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals to engage in competitive rugby while fostering respect and understanding across all gender identities and sexual orientations.

Ross Barr-Hoyland, a trustee of IGR, highlights the importance of visible representation in sports, noting that there are currently no openly gay players in the top tier of English rugby union. “For now, we have to serve as those role models,” he states. The organization reports approximately 150 inclusive clubs worldwide, a significant increase since its establishment in 2000. Barr-Hoyland explains that many allies of the LGBTQ+ community are drawn to these clubs due to their welcoming culture, which contrasts with more traditional rugby environments.

Reflecting on the growth of the Colchester Kings, Biscoe shared, “On that first day, I was just very worried that maybe it would just be four of us handing a ball around to each other.” He emphasizes that many players now travel considerable distances to join the Kings, and the emergence of nearby teams has made the sport more accessible. “The more there is in the region, then the better it is for all the teams,” he adds.

In addition to the Colchester Kings, clubs like Iceni RFC in Wymondham, Norfolk, and the Rochford Hundred Hawks are also thriving. Stuart Kimber, captain of the Hawks, noted that the team has attracted 17 players, with many newcomers eager to learn or support, even if they don’t wish to play. “It's like a family,” said team manager Matt Driffill, emphasizing the friendships formed through the sport.

The Northampton Outlaws, another pioneering team founded in 2012, has grown to about 90 players. President Simon Law credits the rise of inclusive rugby to its welcoming nature, contrasting it with the intimidating atmosphere of traditional clubs. As inclusive teams continue to flourish, the movement is creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals to embrace their passion for rugby and build lasting connections within their communities.