By Mary White (she/her)
NAME: LINDSAY PEAT SPORT: BASKETBALL; GAA; RUGBY. FROM: DUBLIN PRONOUNS: SHE/HER Q: What’s the most empowering part of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community? A: Finally just being myself and comfortable in my own skin after struggling for a long time. Q: What’s a moment in your sports journey that made you feel proud of your LGBTQ+ identity? A: Being an ambassador for the Union Cup which was held in Dublin and the first time the competition had a women’s side to it. It was also held in my alma mater of DCU. Q: What song always gets you pumped up before a big game or event? A: Dog Days are Over by Florence and the Machine. Q: What message would you share with LGBTQ+ athletes embracing their authentic selves? BE BRAVE, BE YOURSELF AND YOU WON’T REGRET IT! Q: How can allies support LGBTQ+ folks in your realm of sport? A: Get involved, especially during times when there are difficult conversations happening and at every opportunity to support not just during Pride month. Research and make sure your club has a diversity and inclusion policy, never be afraid to ask what you can do to help support the LGBTQ+ community both internally and externally if needs be.
NAME: DAVID GOUGH SPORT: GAELIC FOOTBALL REFEREE
In a world where sport is increasingly a platform for visibility, inclusion, and belonging, LGBTQ+ athletes, coaches, referees, pundits, and sports journalists all play a vital role in shaping that culture and driving meaningful change. INTRODUCTION To mark the occasion, Cork Pride will host a panel discussion titled Fearless Future: Celebrating LGBTQ+ Trailblazers and Allies in Irish Sport on Wednesday, July 30 at 7.30pm in The River Lee Hotel. The event will feature key members of the LGBTQ+ community who have helped shape Irish sport and pave the way for a more inclusive future. The discussion will be hosted by Fiona Hayes — former Ireland and Munster rugby player and coach, now a respected pundit with Off The Ball (Newstalk) and Virgin Media. She will be joined by leading figures from the worlds of GAA, rugby, basketball, ladies football, refereeing, and sports journalism — all of whom have contributed to making Irish sport a more welcoming and accepting space. This panel discussion offers a powerful snapshot of courage, authenticity, and the strength of community — both on and off the pitch — that attendees can look forward to on the night.
FROM: SLANE, MEATH PRONOUNS: HE/HIM
Q: What’s the most empowering part of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community? A: I find that the most empowering piece is the sense of belonging to a community, and realising that WHEN WE WORK TOGETHER THAT WE CAN EFFECT CHANGE. Q: What’s a moment in your sports journey that made you feel proud of your LGBTQ+ identity? A: The first time the GAA walked in the Dublin Pride Parade in June 2019. Q: What song always gets you pumped up before a big game or event? A: One Moment in Time by Whitney Houston. Q: What message would you share with LGBTQ+ athletes embracing their authentic selves? A: Firstly, try to believe that nothing will change. Secondly, you won’t be treated differently or made feel lesser than, and thirdly, afford your teammates the opportunity to support you. Q: How can allies support LGBTQ+ folks in your realm of sport? A: By making sure the environment we compete in is safe, inclusive, and respectful. They can do this by voicing their support, or showing it by wearing some rainbow-themed items.
LGBTQ+ LEADERS DRIVING INCLUSION IN IRISH SPORT
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