United by Rivalry: Alfie and Anthony from Pride & Allies UK

As the Rugby World Cup goes, the focus of many is firmly set on the filled stadiums across France. However, the power of rugby runs much deeper – bringing people closer, forging friendships, and igniting rivalries, from grassroots level and beyond.

For two members of our UK Pride & Allies Network, Alfie Scanlon (Kleinwort Hambros) and Anthony Ellaby (Ayvens (ex-ALD Automotive LeasePLan) – rugby’s unifying qualities couldn’t be clearer.?

Playing in the International Gay Rugby League for different teams, Alfie representing Berkshire Unicorns RFC and Anthony playing for Bristol Bisons RFC, one would think there may be a sense of rivalry or competition – instead, as we will see, it’s the sport itself that has brought them together.

We asked Alfie and Anthony their views on why they think rugby unites people, its progress regarding inclusivity, and their predictions for the Rugby World Cup.

How is it that you know Anthony/Alfie?

Anthony: “I know Alfie through both our teams being in the IGR league (International Gay Rugby) which is comprised of 90+ clubs globally. Both of our Teams, The Bisons & the Unicorns, competed in the UK Southern IGR league as well as in the Union Cup this April (The IGR European Cup) and next year will be competing in the Bingham Cup (The IGR World Cup).”

Alfie: “I didn’t know Anthony before joining SGKH, he plays for the Bristol Bisons who my team have played many times in the past. It was just a happy coincidence we both work for Societe Generale. As it happens, we’re both the Club Secretary for our clubs.”

Why do you think rugby helps bring people together?

Anthony: “Rugby is an amazing sport for bringing people together. Players bond not only through the physical training but also as a collective squad becoming a real support network for each other – players, coaches, and supporters alike!”

Alfie: “For me rugby is family, I’ve met some of my closest friends through the rugby community. Once you’ve been through some tough games together you form a deep bond with your teammates that last a lifetime. I feel rugby overall transcends social boundaries and brings people together from different walks of life whether that’s playing or supporting. I love watching how it brings out people’s profound sense of pride, whether that’s in their local club or their national teams and naturally come together to form a community of support. That support is so important to players, to hear that noise from the stands egging you on can give life at times when you really are running on empty! It’s important for everyone really, it gives you a sense of belonging to something good.”

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How do you think rugby has become more inclusive? And what more could be done?

Anthony: “Leagues like the IGR have certainly helped inclusivity within rugby by providing safe spaces for the queer community, however there is far more to be done. The RFL & RFU policy banning trans women from competing in women’s rugby came into effect in August 2022. I, like many others, believe rugby is for all and would love to see this policy challenged and updated to make sure nobody is excluded from the sport.”

Alfie: “This is a hard one to answer. My experience of playing rugby in the IGR leagues is that it is a sport for everyone, irrespective of your fitness level, size, or ability. It has become a safe space for members and allies of the LGBT+ community to excel at a sport they love, have a connection to their community they may not have otherwise. There is the added value that they are coming back to a sport they perhaps were turned away from in their formative years, or never got to try in the first place (no pun intended).

Rugby has become more inclusive generally, there has been a huge drive from larger premiership clubs and the RFU in supporting diverse communities to show it is a sport for everyone and the opportunities it can provide. However, I believe there is still a way to go at a local level. There is still a lack of understanding with some clubs as to the importance of being open to everyone, not just the few. There can be a culture where certain players are being left behind in the pursuit of glory, despite their natural ability, and ultimately just walk away. I think there needs to be more pressure put on local clubs to be open to players of all abilities, to utilise the resources available to educate themselves on topics like diversity and inclusion.”

Who do you think will win the Rugby World Cup?

Alfie: “I think Ireland has a good shot this year and can easily see them in the final. It’s an easy statement to make given I’m Irish but I think it’s justified given we are currently ranked number one in the world. Ireland have done some great work in the last few years rebuilding a strong team, with Andy Farrell leading the charge. So my bet is on Ireland for the win, COYBIG!” (This interview was made before the RWC2023)

Anthony: “Yeah, I’ll go with that!”

A closing statement from Alfie:?

“To anyone that is even slightly interested in joining a rugby club whether as player or as supporter, do it! I came back to the sport in recent years after mostly being bullied away from sport at school. It’s been the best decision I’ve ever taken; it’s provided me with a family I didn’t know I needed, an endless social life and a sense of belonging and identity I had been in search of.”

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To find out more about Societe Generale's goal for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, visit https://www.societegenerale.com/en/responsibility/responsible-employer/diversity-and-inclusion