Rainbow Racquets Open Tournament champions inclusion and community in squash

The Rainbow Racquets Open Tournament was successfully staged at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC) on Saturday, February 1, bringing together players from across the LGBTQ+ community and allies for a day of competitive squash and camaraderie. 

The event saw 17 participants compete across three divisions, with over 30 matches played, reinforcing the growing enthusiasm for inclusive squash initiatives in Australia.

The tournament followed a successful presence at the Midsumma Carnival, where a dedicated stall promoted both the competition and the Rainbow Racquets Squash Melbourne (RRSM) group. 

Interest in the initiative has increased significantly, with RRSM set to host its first official session on Sunday, February 16, at MSAC.

Beyond the competition, the event extended into the broader Midsumma Festival, with a group of players representing squash at the Midsumma Pride March in St Kilda on Sunday, February 2.

Participants joined a diverse range of sports and businesses in advocating for inclusion and visibility in sport.

Shaun McEachin, the National Lead of Sport Development at Squash Australia, emphasised the significance of these initiatives in promoting inclusivity within the sport.

“Squash Australia is committed to ensuring that our sport is welcoming, safe, and inclusive for all,” said Shaun. 

“Events like the Rainbow Racquets Open and our engagement with Midsumma provide important platforms to break down barriers to participation for LGBTQ+ players and their allies. 

“By fostering an environment that embraces diversity, we are strengthening the sense of belonging within our squash community and reinforcing that everyone has a place in our sport.”

As part of its ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion, Squash Australia maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination, including homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia. 

The organisation is a proud member of Pride in Sport Australia, working to implement policies and initiatives that ensure equitable access and safe participation for all members of the squash community.

For more updates and highlights from the event, stay connected with Squash Australia and the Rainbow Racquets Squash Melbourne community.

Tournament Results

A Grade
2. David Cowell (He/Him)

3. Norman Mitchell

B Grade
1.  Brett Paterson (He/Him)

2. Liam Watts (He/Him)

3. Jakob Smith (He/Him)

C Grade
1. Nicholas Catto

2. Alexander Lomas

3. David Toro (He)