Preston's Typhoons RUFC sets aim to push inclusion in sport

Typhoons RUFC are Lancashire's first inclusive rugby club, aiming to provide a safe community for people from a range of different backgrounds.

The Preston-based rugby team welcome players from all different ages, genders and sexualities to play for both their touch rugby and rugby union teams.

The Typhoons are proud members of the International Gay Rugby community (IGR), that has more than 100 gay and inclusive rugby clubs in 20 different countries across the globe.

"I think it's really important for all of us that the club continues to grow, continues to thrive but also continues to push the boundaries of what inclusion means in sport,” Chairperson Kris Barber-Midgley said.

"Some of them come from situations where they may not be out in their day-to-day life and fear what that might be for them, and they come here and they're able to be themselves,” he added.

As well as taking steps to support members of the LGBTQ+ community, Barber-Midgley said the club has also been able expanded its presence further.

"Actually, the club has grown now so we welcome people from all strands. That might be people who identify as straight, we have people from all genders, across the age spectrum and the north west that come and enjoy rugby union and touch rugby every single week,” he said.

Membership & Recruitment Officer Michael Hill believes attending LGBTQ+ events will be important for the club to expand its reach.

"Specifically last year we started looking into our Pride events and how can we really utilise those to bring new members into the club, Hill said.

"A lot of the LGBTQ+ community never found a place for sport growing up. We really provide the opportunity for them," he added.

As part of their mission to encourage inclusivity, the Preston-based team have enjoyed success both on and off the pitch, previously winning their regional rugby union division.

The club have also seen a positive increase in its number of members.

“I came down to try it and I’ve really found a big family, Touch Vice Captain Amber Eastwood said.

“You’re greeted as a friend even when it’s your first session,” she added.

“If there’s anything I’ve got from this it’s actually a bit of regret that I wish I’d started sooner because these guys are so amazing,” Touch Team Captain Matt Grogan said.

To contact the Typhoons, you can visit their Facebook @Typhoons RUFC or via their website Typhoos.org.uk.