Chris Devine blogs on his weekend of volunteering at the annual Pride Youth Games event in Manchester…
By Chris Devine
I consider myself really fortunate to be given a chance to help out at the Pride Youth Games in Manchester.
For those of you not aware, the Pride Youth Games is a residential weekend of activities, which provides a unique opportunity for LGBT+ young people to get together, have fun, and experience sport in a safe and inclusive environment.
Attendees at the August 2019 event were given the opportunity to participate in a wide range of sports, including dodgeball, golf, climbing, korfball and kickboxing.
They also had the option of attending sports media workshops – which was where I came in!
In addition to providing information on my own role, the Sports Media LGBT+ network, and coverage of LGBT issues in sport during each 50-minute session, I encouraged individuals to write about their favourite sporting events and role models.
The latter topic proved particularly interesting, with many of the young people writing beautiful, moving pieces on those who have inspired them.
The role models selected included Megan Rapinoe (the only person to be picked more than once), Gareth Thomas, Serena Williams and Neville Southall, along with a number of people from outside sport, including Carmen Carrera, Michael Sheen and Nina Simone!
Many of the people who attended the Pride Youth Games may have previously suffered negative experiences of sport and physical education, so it was hugely rewarding to be able to discuss sport, the media and LGBT issues in such a positive, inclusive environment.
It all made for a really enjoyable day for me… and hopefully the people who came to the workshops!
Thanks to Chris! Learn more about Pride Youth Games at the Pride Sports UK website.