Inclusion within sport for the LGBT community is often lacking, with Stonewall statistics stating that only 43% of sport fans think live sport events are welcoming for LGBTQ+ fans.
Sheffield is home to a number of LGBTQ+ sports teams and groups which aim to bring people from the community together and create a supportive and welcoming environment.
Sheffield Vulcans
Sheffield Vulcans RUFC is an inclusive rugby club which was set up as a part of the IGR’s Spirit of Rugby Campaign.
Their website states: “Our main aim is provide a safe place for anyone from the LGBTQIA+ community and for anyone in general to participate in sports without worry of prejudice.”
The Rugby club’s Tuesday sessions are open to anyone of any sexuality, size or experience – making them a hub for rugby enthusiasts of any background to get into active participation.
Rainbow Laces
Rainbow Laces is a subsection of the Rainbow Blades group which runs football tournaments to promote inclusion in sport for members of the LGBT community.
The idea of rainbow laces stems from a Stonewall campaign in which allies of the LGBT community were encouraged to wear rainbow shoelaces to help build a sense of inclusion in sport.
The campaign, which is backed by the Premier League for two matchweeks per season, has extended to all levels of English football, as an indication of the sport’s willingness to tackle homophobia.
TransActive
TransActive is a group which aims to help the transgender community in and around Sheffield to socialise and get involved in sports and fitness activities in a relaxed and friendly environment.
The group currently runs weekly swimming sessions at Heeley Pool as well as other activities such as climbing, cycling and yoga.
Anyone who identifies as trans or non-binary, including people who are questioning their gender identity, are invited to join in the fun.
Fri-Gay at the Climbing Hangar Sheffield
Sheffield is a huge hub for rock climbing, making it a must try sport while living in the Steel city.
If you are looking to get involved in rock climbing, The Climbing Hangar hosts a weekly LGBT night.
Fri-Gay runs every Friday from 6:30pm – 9:00pm and provides a social space for casual coaching and group projecting.
The evening is open to anyone who identifies as a part of the LGBTQ+ community, their friends and allies.
As you can tell, there are loads of LGBTQ+ sporting institutions across the steel city for students to get involve with, so throw yourselves in and see for yourselves.