A rugby club is continuing to pave the way for more inclusivity in the sport as it prides itself on being an LGBT+ inclusive space.
Brighton and Hove Sea Serpents, first set up in 2015, have slowly grown from a few members to over 100 people at the club.
The team, whose players have competed internationally, is part of a network of rugby clubs focused on providing an inclusive space for LGBT+ players to get into the game.
Damian Giles, vice-president of the Sea Serpents and England South representative for International Gay Rugby, said: “When I started I came back to Brighton having grown up in Worthing and living in London for 15 years. When you’re 37 and all your friends have got married and had kids its more difficult to start over.
“A lot of guys who came through have had the experience of changing rooms when they were at school. As things move forward it’s become more and more accepting.
“I wouldn’t know half the people I do or done half the stupid things I’ve done without rugby. My first game was within about five weeks of joining and I never looked back.”
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Based at Hove Rugby Club in Shirley Drive, the Sea Serpents were set up in 2015 after the Rugby World Cup in England and have grown to over 100 members in their Facebook group.
The team aims to provide a “safe, inclusive and non-judgemental environment for LGBT+ and ally men to play meetings”.
As part of their games, the club has sent players to international tournaments including upcoming events in Rome.
The club also took part in the Brighton Pride march with Damian having the “refreshing” experience of taking part in the wind and rain in just his underwear.
Damian added that the club are looking to attract new players and make the best of the increased exposure from this year’s Rugby World Cup in France in September.
The club is running “Try Rugby” sessions which aim to help people who have never played or previously stopped playing to get into the sport.
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