Colchester Kings RFC: Try with Pride

Colchester Kings Rugby Club is East Anglia’s first gay and inclusive rugby team. They provide opportunities for anyone, regardless of experience, age, size or sexuality, to take part in team sport and the sense of belonging and achievement that it brings.

 By providing an inclusive environment where anyone is welcome, they’re taking positive action to eliminate homophobia and transphobia in sport.

Colchester Kings RFC have come a long way since they started in June 2022, less than a year ago. Before joining the team, 85% of their members had never played a team sport before and 40% described themselves as completely inactive.

But, having secured their first win against Maldon in January 2023, they’re already going from strength to strength, with an ambition to progress to European and World Cup events in the future.

And, with the help of a donation of £2,000 from our Community Cares Fund, they’ll be able to grow their membership. Inclusion is at the heart of the club and our funding will help the club to provide training equipment and free kit, including boots and mouth guards, completely free of charge, so that no one is excluded on the grounds of cost.

Colchester Kings commented:

‘We’re thrilled to have received a generous donation from the East of England Co-op that will support Colchester Kings though our first rugby season. The grant from the Community Cares Fund will really help us support our members and create an impact within our community, getting more people active!

The fund is generously supported by Co-op shoppers and members who donate their dividend to make a positive difference in the community and we’re delighted to be a recipient of the fund.’

Colchester Kings train weekly on Mondays. If you’d like to join or attend their games, check out their their website here.

Our Community Cares Fund is generously supported by donations from our members and customers, and you can help! Discover how you can help even more amazing things happen here.