Allianz helps launch LGBTQ+ inclusive sports program

Allianz has partnered with LGBTQ+ sports organiser Pride in Sport to help launch a training program to improve education and inclusion in sports.

The initiative, Coach For All, aims to teach coaches of sporting teams across all levels to ensure a supportive and fair environment for all players and athletes.

Pride in Sport Project Officer Ben Cork says the program intends to address homophobic language and behaviour within sports, noting “a culture of ingrained, if unintentional, exclusion” faced by queer athletes.

“The Coach For All program provides practical tools and resources for coaches to challenge homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in sport, while also building more inclusive teams that celebrate diversity,” Mr Cork said.

“We hope that this program will help shift the culture in sports coaching and create safer and more inclusive environments for all athletes.”

Mr Cork says LGBTQ+ athletes often face mental health issues and increased dropout rates due to attitudes within sporting cultures.

“Out on the Fields, the largest international study conducted into gay athletes and homophobia in sport supports this, with 73% of LGBTQ+ youth reporting having not felt safe playing team sport,” Mr Cork said.

“Australia has also had some of the highest rates of LQBTQ+ exclusion in sport with 80% of Australians surveyed having witnessed or experienced homophobia in a sporting environment.”

The program will include four-part series from Sydney Roosters head coach Trent Robinson and Australian paralympic wheelchair leading coach Louise Sauvage OAM to assist coaches in identifying and confronting potential scenarios.

Executive Sponsor of Allianz Australia’s Pride Network and Chief Customer & Operations Officer Brendan Dunne says the initiative provides a chance for the group to take “real action” to help create a welcoming environment.

“We have a long history of supporting sport in Australia and globally. Whether it’s side-by-side at Allianz Stadium or supporting athletes to compete at the Olympics and Paralympic games and beyond. So we have a unique opportunity to create change for the better.”