What is IGRAB?

The International Gay Rugby Association and Board (IGRAB) is a formalisation of networking that has started in recent years between the world’s gay rugby clubs. It is dedicated to encouraging lesbians and gay men everywhere to play rugby. IGRAB has a constitution and is based in London, UK. The Board itself comprises representatives of all of the member-clubs as well representatives of any unaffiliated members-at-large. IGRAB is administered on a day-to-day basis by a subset of the Board known as the executive committee.

What are the goals of IGRAB?

To quote from the IGRAB draft constitution, IGRAB’s goals are to:

• Supervise a gay rugby world cup
• Encourage the creation of more lesbian and gay friendly teams

IGRAB seeks to ensure its activities and rugby generally are inclusive in nature. IGRAB will strive to ensure that no individual shall be excluded from participating in IGRAB or rugby on the basis of sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, political beliefs, athletic ability, age, physical challenge, mental challenge, or health status.

What sports are covered by IGRAB?

IGRAB constitutionally covers rugby union, rugby league, sevens rugby, quad (wheelchair) rugby, and touch rugby. Rugby union is by far the largest part of rugby - it is the third most popular team sport in the world - hence IGRAB’s focus is biased towards this code of rugby. Rugby is the principal team sport of Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Wales and Ireland. In countries such as England, Scotland, France, Italy and Argentina it is the second national sport behind soccer.

Who is a member of IGRAB?

The member list is constantly growing. The most up-to-date version can generally be found on the IGRAB Members page.

Can individuals be members of IGRAB?

Yes. The focus of IGRAB is club-based, but individuals living outside the catchment area of an IGRAB member can join IGRAB via worldwide teams.

What is the history behind gay rugby?

There were some informal teams started in South Africa in the early 1990s. The first gay rugby club to become formally established was the Kings Cross Steelers in London, which was founded on 1 November 1995. The Steelers are now full and active members of the sport’s governing body, the Rugby Football Union, participate in the national leagues and is one of Britain’s largest gay organisations. Subsequently teams have started up in Manchester, Washington, Auckland and Wellington. In Sydney there is an established touch rugby team, with others starting more recently in Brisbane and Melbourne.

How can I find out more information?

Contact Chris Galley (london@compuserve.com) or Raimundo Martinez (dc65outdoors@aol.com).