Pride Month Spotlight: Celebrating Inclusion and Community in Squash
Published Fri 30 May 2025
June is Pride Month, a time to recognise and celebrate the strength, diversity and achievements of LGBTQ+ communities. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of creating inclusive spaces in all areas of life, including sport.
At Squash Australia, we are proud to support Pride Month and reaffirm our commitment to a sport where everyone is welcome and valued. Through a successful funding submission for the Pride in Sport Festival, Squash South Australia delivered a series of events designed to celebrate community and open the sport to new participants.
The festival is a national initiative that supports LGBTQ+ inclusion by providing resources and opportunities for sporting organisations to connect, engage and grow. Across March and April, Squash SA held three successful Pride in Squash Come and Try Days in Adelaide. These events took place at The ARC Campbelltown, Flinders University and Adelaide University. The events offered safe and welcoming environments for people to try squash, engage with other participants and learn more about the sport. At the Flinders University event, ten new participants took part, with six expressing interest in continuing their squash journey. One attendee has also shown interest in taking on a leadership role within a club, a promising sign for future community-driven development.
Additional events, such as the Pride Sport Decathlon and Adelaide University Multi Sport Day, brought together LGBTQ+ inclusive sports and recreation groups in fun and engaging ways. These events allowed people to discover new sports, connect with inclusive clubs and experience the joy of being part of an active community. A key part of this movement is the Rainbow Racquets Squash Network which has expanded to include Melbourne and Adelaide, in addition to Canberra and Sydney.
This growing initiative brings together LGBTQ+ players, allies and supporters to foster community, increase visibility and build inclusive squash environments across the country. It is a space where everyone can feel comfortable and confident being themselves, both on and off the court.
“We are proud of the progress being made and the strong sense of connection that continues to grow within the squash community.” Said Shaun McEachin, national Lead – Sport Development at Squash Australia.
“By working together, we are creating a sport that reflects the values of inclusion, respect and celebration.”
To learn more or to get involved, visit the Rainbow Racquets Squash Network website and become part of this exciting journey.
