This week, accounts manager Sam Chedzoy talks to us about joining gay London rugby club the Kings Cross Steelers
“I joined the Kings Cross Steelers in September last year after embarking on a weight loss programme. I had never done any sport before, unless you count Netflix marathons so I guess you could say I was pretty nervous. Straight away my fears were put at ease and I was welcomed with open arms.
The inclusive nature of the club doesn’t just cover sexuality, it extends to fitness levels, body shapes and generally any guy who wants to engage in the sport.”
“The biggest shock I had when joining was just how much activity and engagement there was on offer.
From weekend rugby skill clinics in Edinburgh, to parties and socials – your calendar suddenly fills up pretty quickly and there isn’t a weekend or evening left without much to do. The best thing of course, besides increasing my overall fitness and learning new skills, is being welcomed into a family.
I joined at a pivotal time for the club, celebrating the 20th anniversary of its founding.”
“As the world’s first ever gay-inclusive rugby union club, the Steelers have made a lasting impact on the complex relationship between homophobia and sports and have paved the way for many other teams to do the same.
This summer, many of the club’s members, including myself, are travelling to Nashville to celebrate the Bingham cup. It’s a meeting of gay rugby teams across the globe which will be a fantastic event as well as a huge personal achievement.”
• If you’re interested in joining the Steelers (or just ogling pictures of their players) then head to www.pitchero.com/clubs/kingscrosssteelers/
