The north-east’s first gay-inclusive rugby club have received backing from a leading opticians as it works to build up its squad.
Aberdeen Taexali have more than a dozen gay, straight, bisexual and trans men on their ranks, who are aiming to join International Gay Rugby and start playing their first competitive matches later this year.
The team, named after what the ancient Romans called people living in the north-east, was formed in October and holds weekly training sessions at Hazlehead Park.
It was set up to help challenge people’s negative perceptions of sport, which can often stem from bullying at school at an early age.
Great work from the lads that braved the wind and rain for training this morning and still gave 100% effort. ?#togetherTAEXALI#inclusiverugby pic.twitter.com/6AZlMfMNOe
— Aberdeen Taexali Rugby (@aberdeentaexali) January 27, 2019
Chairman Bryan Sinclair said: “We wanted to create an environment where everyone can be themselves, feel welcome, and take part in a sport so that we can overcome the stigma that’s often associated with sport and LGBT people.”
Taexali have been boosted with the announcement that Specsavers on Union Street will be its corporate sponsor for the next 12 months.
Store director Dave McGinty said: “We think that Aberdeen Taexali Rugby Club is a great, inclusive concept that will serve to encourage sporting activity while breaking down barriers.
“We’re delighted to be supporting it, and look forward to seeing it grow.”