An inclusive Cricket club based in Liverpool is breaking boundaries for the LGBT community.
Mersey Rose Recreationals, in Wavertree, provides an inclusive environment for cricket players of all ages and backgrounds.
The award-winning club runs two teams – a hardball and a softball team – with players as young as nine and as old as 88.
The Hardball captain Andi Page said: “We set out to be intentionally inclusive. We deliberately seek to appeal to people of all backgrounds, especially LGBTQ+ people.”
The 47-year-old, from Liverpool, works as an NHS manager in mental health services.
Andi added: “We founded the club just over a year ago, and so far It feels like it’s been an astonishing success. A lot of people new to the game have developed as Cricketers.”
The club’s main focus is to boost amateur players’ cricket skills, whilst building a community along the way.
Andi said: “Disabled people, older people, women. People who often don’t play cricket at local clubs. We’re keen to welcome anyone, whether or not they’ve played much Cricket previously.”
The non-competitive club won’t be winning leagues, tournaments or trophies, as they see more value in gaining friendships and changing lives.
Andi explained: “It doesn’t mean that we don’t try to get results, but it does mean that it’s not the most important objective. We’re looking to build an inclusive sporting community.”
The community they are building is already proving to be a success.
A trans player, who was not confident in sports, has already won awards in her first year at the club.
Andi said: “She didn’t know where to go that would not only accept her playing but actively welcome her.”
Stats show that 80% of people have witnessed or experienced homophobic behaviour in sports, which often makes players less confident.
To combat this, Andi said: “At Mersey Rose, we don’t ask awkward questions to players about gender identity. She’s had a great first season and received a Rising Star Award.”
The club also gives roles to players who cannot participate physically or prefer to spectate.
Andi said: “Every member is encouraged to be involved in the full life of the club.
“Whether it’s playing or taking on other roles within the club. One member is an occasional player who enjoys serving as a scorer on matchdays. We encourage people to use their abilities in creative ways.”
The club’s aim for the new year is to expand its inclusivity by working alongside local faith-based teams in promoting a better understanding of religion and faith.
Andi added: “We want to continue to be more intentionally inclusive.
“In 2025 will be taking part in events around Disability Awareness Day and Pride. We’re also hoping to have some games against local faith-based teams with a view to promoting a better understanding of religious identity and fostering positive relationships with faith communities.”
