Lincolnshire Lancers' First-Ever LGBT Rugby Match
Lincolnshire's inaugural LGBT inclusive rugby team, the Lincolnshire Lancers, makes its debut at a competitive match in Norfolk. Established in 2022 by Blake Coghill, the Lincolnshire Lancers strive to provide a warm and secure atmosphere for the LGBT+ community to experience rugby.
Breaking Stereotypes
Team Chairperson Jamie Walmsley, 31, encourages individuals of all skill levels to visit one of their sessions at Lincoln Rugby Club. He reveals his mission to dismantle stereotypes often associated with heavily masculinized sports like rugby, which can deter prospective players.
"There are a lot of stereotypes with rugby and other sports being very manly, with lots of drinking and other scary bits associated with it which put a lot of people off... We try to promote it as just come along, make friends, and you don't need to have any experience at all."
Gaining Momentum
After the team's participation in Lincoln Pride and Scunthorpe Pride, they experienced an increase in the number of attendees at their weekly training sessions. Walmsley explains how this community visibility has been vital for recruitment.
"We went to Lincoln Pride and Scunthorpe Pride this year and found so many people from that. Since Pride, we've had nearly 16 people at training every week."
Debut Match
The Lincolnshire Lancers chose touch rugby due to controversies surrounding transgender participation in rugby union teams. Their first match will take place in Wymondham on September 14, at a touch rugby tournament 'Boudica's Battle of the Balls' hosted by Iceni RFC.
The Lincolnshire Lancers Kit
The sports apparel company, Kitlocker, generously crafted the team's first kit. The Lincolnshire Lancers played a part in designing the kit, choosing colours and styles to represent them. Walmsley is elated with the final product and has already received positive public feedback.
"The kit is incredible. I feel so lucky. We had a kind offer from Kitlocker who wanted to donate us a kit... We've had so many positive comments about the kit and people asking where they can get a shirt."
Future Aspirations
The team anticipates launching a rugby union team and has plans to watch a tournament in Rome. They will host a 'Meet the Team' event on October 7 at Lincoln Rugby Club for those interested in joining the inclusive team.