Rugby reaches out to LGBTQ+ Players in Mid-West for Rugby Camp

The camp will run over six weeks from Monday August 29th and be based in Young Munster RFC in Limerick.

Sarsfields RFC, a new LGBTQ+ inclusive rugby initiative for the mid-west, are inviting players of all abilities, experiences and identities to join them for a rugby camp in August, September and October.

The camp will run over six weeks from Monday August 29th and be based in Young Munster RFC in Limerick. 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. Anyone interested in getting involved is asked to register at www.sarsfieldsrfc.ie

"The recent changes to gender participation policy in rugby have highlighted the need for rugby clubs to be more inclusive than ever," said project lead Gearóid Folan.

"All clubs have an opportunity to step up in this regard and while we are not yet a ratified member of the IRFU, they have been working closely with us and we are trying to do our bit. We're grateful also to Young Munster RFC who have readily made their facilities available.

"Our players will have access to everything they need to learn the skills of rugby in a safe and inclusive environment. There will be a welcome at the gate, changing rooms suitable for all, some top class coaches and a rugby programme which will be suited to everyone from complete beginners to cup winners."

Sarsfields RFC launched at Limerick Pride in July with an expression of interest form designed to learn more about the need for an inclusive rugby project in the mid-west.

"We had a really positive reaction to our launch and the expression of interest form. It gave us the insight that there is most definitely an opening for a new kind of rugby offering in the region - one which goes out of its way to be inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community. We've also had great interest from allies and current players who also want to be part of this. We're building something special."

The six week programme is suited to both complete beginners and any experienced players who would like to focus on skill development around core elements such as catch-pass, footwork, evasion and identifying space. The programme will culminate in Sarsfields RFC’s first ever game – a touch rugby match against a Munster team to be confirmed.

Darren ‘Morro’ Morrin has been confirmed as guest coach for the first session on August 29th. As a player, Darren is tight head prop with Malahide RFC in the Energia All-Ireland League. He is also former Head Coach of the Emerald Warriors and current Head of Global Communications & Media Relations for International Gay Rugby.