As we celebrate LGBT+ History month, the RFL is proud to be an advocate and ally to the LGBTQIA+ community, aiming to push our commitment to inclusivity and diversity forward in our sport.
This month’s theme is activism and social change which provides an opportunity to reflect on the significant contributions of the LGBTQIA+ individuals to Rugby League.
The pioneering individuals...
Ryan O’Neill & Kaue Garcia
In January 2019, the Keighley Cougars were saved from oblivion by Ryan O’Neill and his husband Kaue Garcia; making them the first married gay couple and only openly LGBTQIA+ owners of a professional sports club outside of the United States of America.
Since Ryan and Kaue took over, the club has unapologetically pledged itself to its values of love, unity, and peace, and have remained loyal to these values ever since. The club has trailblazed throughout the last four years, with the first ‘Pride’ match held in Rugby League and professional sport in the United Kingdom.
Keegan Hirst
In 2015, Keegan Hirst became the first British professional Rugby League player to come out as gay while still playing. Keegan’s journey from playing for teams such as Dewsbury Rams, Batley Bulldogs and Halifax to becoming the first British professional Rugby League player to publicly come out as gay has positioned him as a symbol of courage and resilience.
His announcement was met with widespread support and highlighted the evolving attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ athletes in Rugby League. To this day Keegan recognised as trailblazer in Rugby League and is valued by the Rugby League community and beyond.
Marcus Griffiths
Marcus Griffiths, one of the full-time panels of elite match officials is the only present openly gay referee at the RFL, after coming out in 2021.
During the Tackle the Tough stuff campaign in 2024 Marcus disclosed the vile, homophobic abuse he receives online. Despite the online abuse, Marcus has credited the Rugby League community for their support and has offered advice for anyone who may face similar battles. Marcus is an inspiration for many past and present and is incredibly valued within the Rugby League community.
Courtney Winfield-Hill
Former England international, Leeds Rhinos Captain and 2019 Woman of Steel, Courtney Winfield-Hill joined the sport's Governing Body as Senior Women and Girls’ Partner in 2024. Courtney is proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and is married to cricket sport star Lauren Winfield-Hill.
Although both the Cricket and Rugby League seasons fall outside of Rainbow Laces Day, previously both sports have showed solidarity in unison with the LGBTQIA+ community by holding their own Rainbow Laces rounds during their respective seasons. Courtney is a significant figure within the game and has an incredible impact on how the women’s game is set to grow.
Resources to share during LGBT+ History Month:
