SARSFIELD RFC, a new LGBTQ+ initiative in the Mid West, has invited prospective players of all abilities, experiences, and identities to take part in an inclusive rugby camp in Limerick.
The camp, aimed at members of the LGBTQ+ community, was launched at Limerick Pride in July with the aim of reminding the people of Limerick that there is a place for everyone in sport.
Young Munster RFC will host the camp over a six-week period between August and October. The format will be mixed-gender and non-contact with a focus on fun and developing core skills of the game. Sessions will be run by qualified coaches with a number of special guest coaches also to be announced.
Project leader Gearóid Folan emphasised the initiative’s particular importance in light of recent changes to the rules surrounding gender in rugby.
“The recent changes to gender participation policy in rugby have highlighted the need for rugby clubs to be more inclusive than ever”, he said, referencing a new policy that will see the banning of trans women from participating in women’s rugby.
Sarsfield RFC have called for IRFU member clubs to use this opportunity to step up and show solidarity with the new LGBTQ+ movement within the sport.
The mixed-gender groups will be coached by an assortment of experienced guest coaches. Malahide RFC’s Darren ‘Morro’ Morrin has been confirmed as guest coach for the first session on August 29. Darren is tight head prop with Malahide RFC in the Energia All-Ireland League. He is also the current head of global communications and media relations for International Gay Rugby.
Anyone who would like to get involved as a player or volunteer can find out more on www.sarsfieldsrfc.ie.
