Featured events


7-9 September 2012
Brussels Games
Brussels

Brussels Gay Sports will offer a weekend of fun and fairplay in the capital of Europe, with volleyball, swimming, badminton, and tennis, as well as fitness and hiking.

Learn more HERE.
26-28 October 2012
QueergamesBern
Bern, Switzerland

The success of the first edition of the QueergamesBern proved the need for an LGBT multisport event in Switzerland. This year will be even bigger, with badminton, bowling, running, walking, floorball.

Learn more HERE.
17-20 January 2013
Sin City Shootout
Las Vegas
The 7th Sin City Shootout will feature softball, ice hockey, tennis, wrestling, basketball, dodgeball, bodybuilding and basketball.

Learn more HERE.

13-16 June 2013
IGLFA Euro Cup
Dublin
After this year's edition in Budapest at the EuroGames, the IGLFA Euro Cup heads to Dublin for 2013, hosted by the Dublin Devils and the Dublin Phoenix Tigers.

Learn more HERE.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Martina Navratilova urges athletes to come out

From Diva magazine, a message from Martina Navratilova (h/t Brian Sims):

Speaking to DIVA following David Cameron's reception at 10 Downing Street on Wednesday, she said transparency in sport is vital.

"Homophobia and transphobia in sports are problems that we need to give a lot more work and attention to eliminate. Fortunately (for me unfortunately), the UK is way ahead of the US in tackling these issues.

"I would love for more individuals and organisations to stand up and take a more forceful and public stand against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression. Too many gyms, locker rooms, and playing fields are often perceived as unsafe places for LGBT students. That can discourage that spirit and natural gifts of athletes. Athletes themselves should not fear coming out. Nobody should be able to stop you from playing. If you are good enough, you get to play and you get to win."

She also said that a greater number of out players would improve the wider culture of sport.

"I believe if all the gay men and women came out, the sports world and the world in general would be a lot better off. Athletes today are progressing to unprecedented levels of skill and strength. But homophobia slowly poisons the process and prevents people from realizing their dreams. And as long as prejudice prevails, athletes won't get their fair due.

"We must ensure that everyone has a voice; we must challenge unacceptable behaviour, and rid the sports world of homophobia and transphobia. Then and only then, will we make sports a welcome place for everyone."

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