A Game for All: How Rainbow Racquets Is Making Squash More Inclusive

In celebration of June being Pride Month, Squash Australia is showcasing individuals and groups dedicated to fostering a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants in  our sport.

For 23 years, Rainbow Racquets Squash Network has been a space where LGBTQIA+ people and allies come together through sport, without feeling the need to explain themselves or fit a particular mould.

Squash newcomer Ross James finds the welcoming and inclusive community of Rainbow Racquets Canberra greatly increases his enjoyment of the sport“What I found was much more than just a regular hit,” Ross said.

“Rainbow Racquets gave me a way into squash that felt comfortable from the beginning,” he continued. ​“It helped me feel part of the broader squash community much faster than I expected.”

Rainbow Racquets has been an essential part of Ross’ squash journey. He now volunteers at Squash ACT events.

“It gave me a place where I could turn up, have a go, ask questions, meet people and build confidence on court without feeling like I had to prove myself,” he said.

“It sends a strong message that LGBTQIA+ people have a real and lasting place in squash.”

Pride Month is not only a celebration but a reminder that progress, visibility and inclusion doesn’t happen automatically.

Sport plays a major role in bringing communities together.

It is important for sporting organisations to recognise Pride in Sport, as sport hasn’t always felt safe, welcoming or accessible to the LGBTQIA+ community.

The importance of "come and try" days for Rainbow Racquets stems from their ability to foster genuine community.

James has seen the positive impact of a day like this on his friend, Paul.

“He came along for a casual try, received encouragement and support, kept returning, and gradually became a part of the community.”

“Inclusion is not always about grand gestures,” he said. “Sometimes it is about creating a friendly space where people feel comfortable enough to come back the next week.”

For Ross, Pride in Sport is not about representation once a year; it’s every day.

“It sends a clear message that LGBTQIA+ people are welcome, valued and already part of the sporting community,” he said.

“Friendly sessions, accessible entry points, free coaching for newcomers, social events, and a culture where people are encouraged to participate in a way that works for them.”

Pride Month can also be a stepping stone for people to come and try squash, and at Rainbow Racquets, it is about meeting people, learning as you go and being a part of a community that wants you there.

“You will be welcomed, supported and encouraged, and you might be surprised by how quickly it starts to feel familiar,” Ross said.

Squash Australia is proud to be a member of Pride in Sport and a finalist at the recent awards in 2026. Squash Australia is committed to creating a healthy sporting environment and a supportive community for LGBTQIA+ athletes, coaches, referees, volunteers, staff and supporters.

Find out more about Rainbow Racquets, click here.