A Preston-based rugby club has won the International Gay Rugby (IGR) Northern League for the first time.

Typhoons RUFC, Lancashire’s first inclusive club which welcomes ‘all abilities, shapes, sizes and sexualities’ took home the trophy last week coinciding with its sixth anniversary.

Six years ago the team entered IGR as a growing club, unable to fill all the positions on the pitch. After moving up from the IGR Northern Development League in 2022, the club faced a challenging season, finishing at the bottom of the league.

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Duncan Ryan, head coach said: “This team, many of whom had never even held a rugby ball before joining us, has shown an extraordinary level of dedication and performance.

“They’ve embraced the spirit of rugby, demonstrating that it’s not just about the skills you

bring to the field, but the heart you put into every game. 

“Their journey from novices to a formidable team is a testament to their resilience and passion. They are the living proof that with hard work, determination, and a love for the game, anything is  possible. Here’s to the Typhoons RUFC, not just a team, but a family”.

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Typhoons RUFC’s citron is a significant milestone in their journey, demonstrating the power of inclusivity, teamwork and community in achieving.

Kris Barber-Midgley, club chair said: “I’m so incredibly proud to stand here 6 years on as the winners of the IGR Northern League. The team have not only worked hard, but they’ve embraced our values as a club.

“Rejecting a ‘win at all costs’ mentality and instead choosing to build deep bonds as a team which has been the bedrock of our performance on the pitch.”

“As a club, we’re indebted to our coaches, volunteers and the incredible Lancashire businesses that sponsor us and make everything we do possible.”

The club are looking forward to continuing their growth and success in the coming seasons, you can find out more about them here.

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