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Meet Cardiff’s LGBTQ+ sports teams with diversity in their DNA – from football and rugby to tennis and badminton, plus where to find your local LGBTQ+ sports club.
Cardiff Dragons FC
Meet the Cardiff Dragons FC: a trailblazing force in the heart of Cardiff and a vibrant part of the LGBTQ+ community. Founded in 2008, they’re not just any football club—they’re the first mixed-gender LGBTQ+ team in the city, and their passion for the game is matched only by their commitment to inclusion.
It all started with a spark of initiative from a member of Birmingham Blaze who reached out to the South Wales GFSN, looking to field a team for the 2008 GFSN Annual Get-together. Discovering there were no existing teams to represent Cardiff, they decided to step up and create one. Thus, Cardiff Dragons FC was born.
Since then, the club has blossomed into a vibrant community with teams for everyone, no matter their skill level: whether you’re looking to play 11-a-side, 7-a-side, 5-a-side, or even join the unique Goalie Union, there’s a place for you here.
What truly makes the Cardiff Dragons stand out is their warm, welcoming ethos—a genuine celebration of diversity and a safe space where everyone, regardless of their sexuality or gender identity, can enjoy the beautiful game. Their story isn’t just about football; it’s about creating a legacy of unity and acceptance.
Find out more about the Cardiff Dragons FC at cardiffdragonsfc.co.uk
The Cardiff Lions
Since kicking off in 2004, the Cardiff Lions Rugby Club has proudly pioneered inclusivity within Welsh rugby, creating a welcoming space for people of all sexual orientations to come together and enjoy the game.
At the Cardiff Lions, cherished values like discipline, resilience, commitment, and respect are central. These qualities build strong characters on and off the pitch, ensuring every game is played with integrity and sportsmanship. Affiliated with the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), the club loves to keep its calendar filled with friendly matches that showcase its competitive spirit and promote fair play.
But the fun doesn’t stop at rugby! The club buzzes with social activities, from the dazzling antics of Drag Bingo nights to the vibrant celebrations of Pride events. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, there are plenty of hikes and sports days to keep members active and engaged.
A dynamic team of ten enthusiastic committee members, including a chairman, social secretary, and team captain, works tirelessly to foster inclusivity, forge lasting friendships, and deepen the collective love for rugby.
Check out everything the Cardiff Lions Rugby Club team are doing on cardifflions.com
Cardiff Baseliners
Tucked away in the scenic Heath Park courts, the Cardiff Baseliners is not just any tennis club – it’s a vibrant sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community, which first swung open its doors in March 2022. This charming spot is where tennis meets camaraderie, encouraging not just game improvement but also weaving a tapestry of confidence and lasting friendships. It’s a place where everyone can truly be themselves, embraced by an atmosphere of acceptance and belonging.
Last year, the club notched a fabulous milestone. It hosted Wales’ first LGBTQ+ tennis tournament, turning the event into a colourful festivity that welcomed teams from all corners of the UK. It was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of talent, passion, and Pride, wrapped up in a joyous, sociable gathering that felt like a big, warm group hug.
Today, the Cardiff Baseliners stand as a glowing beacon of inclusivity and empowerment. It’s a testament to the strength found in unity and acceptance, both on and off the court, continually inspiring us to rally for who we are and love the game while we’re at it.
Find out what the Cardiff Baseliners are up to on Instagram @cardiffbaseliners
Cardiff Red Kites
At the heart of Cardiff’s badminton community, the Cardiff Red Kites Badminton Club is a vibrant hub of friendship and inclusivity. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the club welcomes everyone with open arms, creating a nurturing environment that caters to players of all skill levels.
It’s not all about the game – the club is also a fantastic place to meet new friends. Many members find themselves forming connections that extend well beyond the badminton court. Under the leadership of Charlotte Galloway, who also chairs Cardiff Dragons FC, the club has become a standout example of inclusivity in action. Charlotte’s initiatives, like ensuring that trans women and trans men can compete comfortably in their respective categories, underscore the club’s deep commitment to fostering an accepting and diverse atmosphere.
With its warm embrace of diversity and unity, the Cardiff Red Kites Badminton Club shines as a beacon in the world of sports, proving that it’s the people and relationships that truly make a place special.
Keep up with the Cardiff Red Kites on X @cardiffredkites
LGBTQ+ Sport Cymru
LGBTQ+ Sport Cymru is an all-volunteer team dedicated to making sports more inclusive across Wales. With a structured committee at its core and backed by a dynamic network of partners from the LGBTQ+ sector, they’re all about teamwork and community, bringing together partners from various fields to share best practices and ensure the message of inclusivity in sports rings loud and clear. It’s a collaborative effort that keeps them at the cutting edge of inclusivity and outreach.
The team of volunteers have big plans to widen their circle even further by boosting their presence in North and West Wales, areas that are currently underrepresented. By bringing more local authorities into the mix, they aim to mesh seamlessly with existing sports development structures, enhancing support and spreading inclusive vibes everywhere.
Beyond meetings and management, LGBTQ+ Sport Cymru is making waves online through their lively social media presence and an interactive website, which acts as a digital hub where people can connect, stay informed, and find inclusive sporting opportunities without any pressure to be openly ‘out’. This approach isn’t just about playing sports—it’s about changing the game for everyone.
Learn more about the work of LGBTQ+ Sport Cymru and find your local club at lgbtsport.cymru
