‘Play with pride’ is the message from AFL Queensland to all players, coaches, umpires, and volunteers ahead of the fourth annual Eximm Sport Pride Round this weekend.
Pride Round will see players across Queensland don colourful jumpers, fields decorated with 50m rainbow arches and umpires waving rainbow flags in celebration and recognition of the LGBTQIA+ community.
The round aims to create a safe and inclusive space for all people involved in the code.
Coorparoo AFC will host the marquee event on Saturday 15 July, with all Bond University QAFLW rounds played at Giffin Park and the senior matches livestreamed.
Head of AFL Queensland Trisha Squires said Eximm Sport Pride Round is an important fixture on the Queensland football calendar.
“We want Queensland football to be a place where players, volunteers, coaches and umpires feel a sense of belonging,” she said.
“Eximm Sport Pride Round is our opportunity to celebrate the diversity within our code and we invite everyone to play with pride this weekend.”
2023 will be the third year Eximm has proudly supported Pride Round and this season they come on board as naming rights sponsor.
Danika Goodman, Eximm Sport Community Development Manager, said the company is proud of the partnership formed with AFL Queensland.
“Eximm Sport embraces diversity through all facets of the company, valuing the generous contributions of our team members, clients, partners, talented athletes and community clubs,” she said.
“Our aim is to continue building the legacy we have created with the AFL on Pride Round and in turn, inspire and empower the next generation of athletes, coaches, and volunteers.
“It’s time to celebrate diversity and send a clear message that everyone is supported and valued.”
Ahead of Rainbow Round, AFL Queensland and Eximm Sport will host information sessions with Pride Cup Australia to educate stakeholders and participants about the significance of Pride Round for the LGBTQIA+ community.
