As part of the UCL Squash Club’s ongoing commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all players, we have implemented several initiatives aimed at promoting diversity, normalising participation in diverse activities, and harnessing the power of allyship.
One notable highlight of our efforts was the fixture we organized with Out Play, the only gay squash club in London.
By collaborating with Out Play, we aimed to create an opportunity for members of our club to engage with a diverse group of players and challenge any preconceived notions or stereotypes.
This fixture not only facilitated meaningful connections between players from different backgrounds but also demonstrated our club's commitment to embracing diversity in all its forms.
The key takeaway was simple: the event was nothing more than a fixture with another sports club – sexual orientation should not make a difference.
Furthermore, we recognised the importance of education and dialogue in promoting inclusivity.
To that end, we hosted a panel discussion on inclusivity in sport, featuring Michael McCannon from Sports Media LGBT.
The panel focused on the topics of allyship and visibility, exploring ways in which individuals can actively support and uplift marginalised communities within the sports world.
This event served as a platform for open and honest conversations, encouraging our members to become allies and advocates for inclusivity.
The impact of these initiatives has been clear.
By collaborating with Out Play, we have not only extended a warm welcome to LGBTQ+ players but also demonstrated that squash is a sport for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation.
Through the panel discussion, we have raised awareness about the importance of allyship and visibility, inspiring our members to actively promote inclusivity within and beyond the squash community.
As a result of these efforts, we hope to witness an increase in participation from individuals who may have previously felt excluded or marginalised.
By normalising diverse participation, we have created an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves.