Sculthorpe: Inclusive rugby league welcoming for gay players

Two-time Man of Steel winner Paul Sculthorpe believes that rugby league sits at the front of the pack when it comes to creating a welcoming environment for gay athletes. 

The former St Helens and Great Britain forward cited the positive experiences of Keegan Hirst, who in 2015 became the sport’s first male star to come out while still playing professionally; and current members of the England women’s squad as examples of the code’s culture of inclusivity.

Sculthorpe championed rugby league’s relaxed attitude during an appearance on the Success Won’t Come Calling podcast.

He was asked why participants in other elite disciplines – such as top-flight football – appear reluctant or unable to speak openly about their sexuality.

The rugby league community

“Keegan was probably very comfortable coming out to rugby league people about his sexuality because I think we’ve always been a game that supports our own,” the former Great Britain captain told the show’s host Simon Gibson.

“The game is very respectful of its officials, players and fans. I always speak about the Magic Weekend at St James’ Park in Newcastle, where all 12 Super League teams play; and 12 lots of fans mingle with each other and the atmosphere is fantastic.

“That happens through respect and when there are tough times – such as when Rob Burrow was diagnosed with MND [Motor Neurone Disease] or when Danny Jones passed away after suffering a heart attack – the rugby league community pulls together; it’s very tight-knit, which must make coming out easier.

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“I’ve had the pleasure of coaching England women and there are gay players and partnerships within the team; and it’s great.

“In today’s world it shouldn’t even be blinked at any way.”

Pro-active approach to inclusivity

Sculthorpe won a total of four Grand Finals, four Challenge Cups and two World Club Challenges with Saints. He spoke of his pride in the sport’s proactive approach to beating the drum for diversity.

He added: “The inclusivity of rugby league is something we always shout about.

“You’ve only got to look at the upcoming World Cup; you’ve got men’s teams, women’s teams, and physical and learning disability teams taking part.

“It is an event that will give people, regardless of physical ability or sexuality, the chance to play at the highest level and be admired.

“Our game has always led the way in doing that.”

Sculthorpe suggested that the chasm in values between the Super League and Premier League was clear for all to see.

“Look at football and the stick the referees take from these players – the lack of respect,” he added.

“Referees are out there to do a job and should be respected.

“In our game you wouldn’t dare say anything to a referee because he’s got two things in his pocket that’ll soon shut you up; one’s yellow, one’s red and they use them.”

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