THE FIRST LGBTQ+ rugby team in North Wales has featured on a new podcast series that highlights sporting groups breaking down barriers across the home nations.

Inspired by a documentary on the world’s first gay rugby club, Kings Cross Steelers, Conwy Dragons was set up in 2021 by Matt Brown and Rob Owen.

As Matt tells the latest Active Together podcast, he was inspired to create similar opportunities in his local community:

“I had the idea, why not just do it myself,” he said.

“I could wait for someone to do it, but I’d be waiting for ages!”

Since its first training session the team has gone from just three members to playing a game at the Principality Stadium.

But, as both Matt and fellow participant Jamie Grubb explain, the heart of the club is its inclusive nature, creating a safe and welcoming environment for anyone to join in.

“It’s a community of people all helping each other, whether that’s physically or mentally to be able to overcome those barriers that we all face internally,” Jamie said.

“We all have our own journeys and our own battles, and having organisations like this helping the local communities to be able to come out of their comfort zones and use that to their advantage and break down the stigmas that there are around things.”

The benefits of sport in bringing people together are highlighted throughout the episode.

GOGA is an activity programme, led by Activity Alliance, that helps people come together to enjoy sport and physical activity in fun environments.

“It's about having somewhere safe” Jamie continued.

“I think that’s probably the most important thing for me about this rugby club and GOGA. There is a safe place for everyone, there is a safe home for us all to be able to use as this hub within the community.

“And I think from there, that’s all that matters.”

Active Together is a podcast series that hears from some of those that have benefited from Get Out Get Active.

From Nordic Walking to SEN Discos, the personal stories of participants and volunteers are shared throughout.

All episodes are available to listen on all podcast platforms.