This intersection between rugby and the 2SLGBTQ+ community began in 1998 with one team in Washington, DC. Since then, it has grown to be the world-wide network of teams known as International Gay Rugby (IGR). Rugby combines athleticism and teamwork, both on the field and off. Many gay and trans people have historically been excluded from opportunities to excel in sports and be part of a team, by either being told they were not welcome or being made to feel unsafe.
Inclusive Rugby is an agent of change for individuals and societies. We get the opportunity to learn and develop in ways many of us thought impossible. We step out on the field as openly queer athletes and allies. Each year, inclusive rugby introduces teams around the world to competitive athletes who are open, proud, and strong — and gay. Inclusive teams introduce communities to the qualities we value: strength, fearlessness, determination, and challenging negative stereotypes.
Playing rugby and existing as a member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community have something in common which almost everyone has experienced, that feeling of getting ready to ‘go into battle’. Doing one seems to make the other a bit easier. For the teammates of Muddy York over the last 20+ years, the personal impact has been profound. People who were told they didn’t belong in sports are now devoted and capable rugby players.
International Gay Rugby (IGR)
We are proud of our membership in the IGR, a globally recognized organization that oversees gay and inclusive rugby teams worldwide.
The IGR was formed in 2000 as the International Gay Rugby Advisory Board, when rugby teams from across the world came together because they wanted to form an organization that promoted rugby as an all-inclusive non-discriminatory sport which everyone can play, regardless of sexuality.
The goal of the IGR is to promote equality and diversity in rugby. Specifically, it strives to eliminate discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and to provide opportunities for members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community to compete in rugby. As of November 2019, IGR is made up of 6,600+ members, 4,900+ players, 83 clubs, 148 teams spread over 20 countries.
Mixed Abilities
At Muddy York, we believe in truly being inclusive, and we are one of a growing number of Mixed Abilities-Sanctioned teams in North America. This means we can accommodate anyone who wants to learn the sport, regardless of physical/mental ability, age, gender, background, or self-perception. Muddy York provides an opportunity to play and train, to be a part of a community where you’re not judged for simply being yourself.