In the NZR+ special feature, Gay & Inclusive Rugby: The NZ Falcons, viewers are invited behind the scenes as Aotearoa’s pioneering gay and inclusive rugby club hosts and competes in the Purchas Cup, an Australasian tournament celebrating diversity and inclusion in the sport.
Named after LGBTQ advocate Andrew Purchas, the event brings together teams from across Australia and New Zealand, united by a shared belief that rugby should be a place where everyone can belong. “Inclusive rugby is about rugby for everyone,” says Purchas Cup Co-Chair Jonah Tan. “Whatever ethnicity you are, whatever gender, whatever orientation — rugby is for everyone.”
New Zealand Rugby’s Head of Culture, Inclusion & Safeguarding, Judy O’Brien, believes there’s a lot to be learned from the Falcons. “As an inclusive team the Falcons have smashed stereotypes by welcoming players of all kinds, including straight men, who just enjoy playing rugby.”
For Falcons president Tom Reed, the club provides something deeper than competition: “Inclusive rugby is creating an environment where anybody can show up as their true selves.”
Through the eyes of players, coaches, and supporters, the mini documentary captures the Falcons’ passion, pride, and whānau spirit — showing how sport can empower people to be themselves, both on and off the field.
Watch “Gay & Inclusive Rugby: The NZ Falcons” from Friday 24 October, 6pm on NZR+ and the All Blacks YouTube channel.
