New gay alliance for Rugby Australia
Rugby Australia says it hopes to grow the number of gay rugby players in Australia and educate people about homophobia through a new alliance with a number of gay-inclusive clubs.
Under the alliance, a new committee will be formed by RA with four Australian rugby clubs – Sydney Convicts, Melbourne Chargers, Brisbane Hustlers and Perth Rams - as well as UK-based International Gay Rugby.
"We want rugby to be a game that all Australians can enjoy regardless of their age, race, background, religion, gender or sexual orientation," said RA chief executive, Raelene Castle.
"This formal alliance between Rugby Australia and the clubs is a key step forward in fostering and maintaining a Rugby environment that is safe, welcoming and enjoyable for all members of the LGBTIQA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer/questioning, asexual) community."
The move to strengthen ties with the gay community comes in a year when the code's relationship with the group came under the spotlight.
Back in May, rugby's star player in Australia, Israel Folau, had his contract terminated after he posted a picture to social media in April saying that homosexuals and other "sinners" would go to hell.
It was the second time in 12 moths Folau had made posts on social media which were deemed by RA to be homophobic.
RA is currently embroiled in a multi-million dollar dispute with the deeply religious Folau, who is appealing its decision.
The case will go to court in February should further mediation fail in December.
AAP
Rugby World Cup Memories - Neil Back:
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SACK HIM !
Go to commentsSafas are so triggered by Ireland. 3 consecutive losses, incl RWC. 8 losses out of last 12 Tests. Always excuses, of course, with Bok fans. Now Rassie with his “88%” nonsense, the Claytons Excuse is an embarrassment to Bok teams of the past when every test mattered. Their fickle mojo will be on edge for the Ireland tour. Have the referees been appointed yet ? They will need security. Have WR laid out strict guidelines for TMO’s and replays on the stadium screens ? Will the constant stoppages from Bok forwards for cramps and bootlaces be tolerated ? We’re not talking a dominant Springbok team here, they won the LOTTO Cup and they know it whether they admit it or not. The Disney doco has their fans positively fermenting internally, its going to be a nasty hangover if they get beaten on home soil. What will the excuses be then……
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