Southampton based Gay and Inclusive rugby club successfully join history-making league
Southampton, 12th July 2018 – In association with International Gay Rugby (IGR), Southampton based Rugby team help establish the first league of it’s kind in the south of the United Kingdom. The team that was formed in 2014 have been working closely with 7 other teams to create a brand new league that will see the inclusive teams play one another for the first time.
With the commitment of two new teams, Swansea Vikings and Reading Renegades, a new league will see Inclusive Rugby widen its influence in the UK. Wessex Wyverns are delighted to be forming this league with the 7 other teams as part of a huge international Gay and Inclusive rugby community. The league will include:
• Birmingham Bulls • Bristol Bisons • Cardiff Lions • Kings Cross Steelers • Northampton Outlaws • Reading Renegades • Swansea Vikings • Wessex Wyverns
Wyverns RFC competed in the Bingham Cup in Amsterdam, which saw them reach the semi-finals of the international tournament in June.
Wessex Wyverns Club President Tom Bassett said: “The IGR league provides the opportunity for inclusive teams to build on their skills within an environment of like-minded players. Not only do we get the chance to play a fantastic sport but also to network with great teams throughout the south.”
Social Secretary from the Swansea Vikings Sam Meredith said: “We are very excited to join the IGR Southern League. We’re looking forward to reinforcing friendships with the teams and creating new connections across the country.”
The creation of the league will support the efforts the clubs are taking to inspire gay men from all backgrounds to take part in sport in an encouraging and supportive environment. Wessex Wyverns will be hosting a series of sessions across the summer at locations in Bournemouth, Southampton and Portsmouth to allow first timers to ‘Give it a Try’. Many of the team had never played any sport until their very first training session.
The team will also be represented at Pride festivals along the south coast this summer including, Bournemouth, Southampton, Isle of Wight, and Portsmouth.