Merseyside has a range of LGBTQ+ inclusive teams to offer for those who are looking to get fitter or socialise with like-minded individuals.
It can be daunting to pick up a new sport and LGBTQ+ folk may worry there aren’t many like them in the team as often representation isn’t at the forefront of the sport industry. This, coupled with the fact many from the community have a negative experience with sports from their childhood, can put people off for life.
Luckily, in and around Merseyside, there are football teams, rugby clubs and sports societies available to join that pride themselves on being LGBTQ+ focused and friendly.
READ MORE: Liverpool's Pride Month is upon us and this is what it means to me and the city
We’ve put together a list of all the teams you can join around the region - and what better time to start than Pride in Liverpool month.
Mersey Marauders Football Club
Mersey Marauders is an award-winning LGBTQ+ football club that offers those within Liverpool and surrounding areas the opportunity to play football in a supportive and inclusive environment.
The group runs weekly training sessions for players of all abilities - whether you’re a seasoned pro or it’s your first time. For those wanting some healthy competition, they also play in national and regional LGBTQ+ 11-a-side leagues, as well as many friendlies and 5-a-side tournaments throughout the season.
The club “exist to rectify” the deep-rooted history of homophobia within football.
Member Francis Wight told the ECHO: “We provide a safe and inclusive space for people to play football, free from discrimination. We are always looking for new players to join the club. If you fancy a kickabout at training or want to get involved in competitive action - we’re the right club for you.”
Liverpool Tritons
The Tritons were formed in 2016 making them Merseyside’s first inclusive rugby team. Since then, they have been welcoming everyone into the sport regardless of sexuality.
The squad, which has over 40 active players, have played across the UK and at international tournaments in Amsterdam and Dublin. New players are taught the basics before being encouraged to learn by joining in, supported by a patient team behind them helping them find their feet through the first few games.
The team recently announced they will be moving home to New Brighton where they will train weekly.
The Tritons also have a touch team which welcomes players of all genders to a social sport without the full contact of rugby union.
Touch team player, Phil Smith, told the ECHO: "I have always been quite a shy, anxious person and I found myself at a point last year where enough was enough. I felt lonely and did not know my place in the world. I wanted to push my boundaries; I wanted to feel stronger. That’s when I found the Liverpool Tritons at Liverpool Pride.
"I learnt about the turn-up and try sessions they were putting on and from the very first session, I felt welcomed straight away. I have now been part of the Tritons for almost a year and it feels like a second family. "
Liverpool Roller Birds
The Roller Birds are Liverpool’s first derby league team and have held the title of British Champions.
The team prides itself on being a safe space for anyone that identifies as female or non-binary to come together and enjoy their love of the sport. They currently have an A and B team who play regularly both at home and away.
Despite being a ‘fast and furious full-contact’ team sport, you will be taught everything you need to know about quad roller skates.
Kop Outs
If you prefer to watch sports from the sideline, Kop Outs is the perfect group for you.
They are a group that exists for the LGBTQ+ fans of Liverpool FC who aim to help the community enjoy the match while being treated with dignity and respect.
Through their shared love of LFC, Kops Out helps support the Liverpool FC Foundation and other local charitable causes. You can join for free online and be kept up to date with the latest news and information of the group as well as have the opportunity to raise any concerns of your own.
Rainbow Toffees
Similarly to Kop Outs, Rainbow Toffees act in the same way but for Everton FC fans.
Member Paul Buckley told the ECHO: “We’re a friendly group who have existed for nine years now. We join various Pride parades around the UK to raise awareness and play charity football games each month.
“It’s a fantastic way to meet like-minded people, socialise, and keep fit. We encourage everyone including LGBTQ+ folk and allies.
“If anyone wishes to come along and participate with Rainbow Toffees we invite you to contact us on our social media channels.”
Rover and Out
On the face of it, Rover and Out are the LGBTQ+ and allies supporters group of Tranmere Rovers FC.
However, those involved with the group have said it is much more than that and in fact, is a safe space where “football fans turn into a family”.
The group was founded by Adam Siddon in 2018. The 32-year-old, from Birkenhead, saw what positive impact the likes of The Rainbow Toffees and Kop Outs were having and wanted to replicate something similar for his own club.
The group takes part in LGBTQ+ campaigns and offers a buddy service which allows those from the community to be partnered up and attend football matches without fear of judgement.
