ACCORDING TO A study by the Gaelic Players Association only 10% of male players are aware of a LGBTQ+ team-mate, whilst on the women's side 69% are aware of having one.
The study carried out with Newstalk FM, took place in recent weeks under the guidance of the GPA’s LGBTQ+ working group also found that 45% of inter-county players are aware of having an LGBTQ+ team-mate
Further findings also state that 99% of inter-county players would be supportive of an LGBTQ+ teammate, if they were to make the choice to come out to teammates.
One of the key aspects of the study is the postive news that LGBTQ+ players discrimination is much lower among players who have an out team-mate, at just 18%, compared to 50% among all respondents.
714 inter-county players took part in the research (41% M:F 59%), with 93% of squads represented by the GPA (114 squads) contributing to the data.
⭐ Key findings from the GPA's #LGBTQ+ research.
🤝Players are and would be overwhelmingly supportive of LGBTQ+ teammates
🌟The findings will now help shape GPA policy in the area of #Equality, #Diversity and #Inclusion which is a central focus for the players’ body. pic.twitter.com/SMUJPqOOsr— GPA (@gaelicplayers) April 27, 2022
GPA CEO Tom Parsons said: "We want to ensure everyone is respected and welcomed at all levels of Gaelic games, and for players to be able to be their authentic selves in all areas of their lives.
"We have established an LGBTQ+ working group and they have identified the importance of allies from outside of the LGBTQ+ community in leading change in the culture and perception of Gaelic games.
Therefore, it is very encouraging to see that this data shows a willingness to be supportive and welcoming of an LGBTQ+ team-mate."
GPA equality, diversity and inclusion manager Gemma Begley added: "This research is about showing current and future LGBTQ+ players that maybe their perception of the reaction they might face from team-mates is not the reality.
However, this is not intended to put any individuals under pressure to come out.
"It is hugely heartening to see some of these numbers but particularly that, where players are aware of a team-mate from the LGBTQ+ community, over eight in 10 feel a player would not face prejudice or discrimination if they came out.
"It is positive that there are current players, both male and female, out within their squads who are able to bring their whole authentic self to all areas of their lives."
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