A fast growing bowling community is helping people across the UK find friendship, confidence and a sense of belonging through sport.
Gay City Bowlers (GCB), which hosts regular bowling social events is consistently expanding and is located across 12 cities in the United Kingdom.
Nick Giaquinto, a director of the group, has emphasised how the socials are more than just a sporting event.
He said: “I feel GCB is not just a sport, yes we do have winners every month who get a medal if you’re in the top 3, but it is a community, a sanctuary, the only night out for some LGBT+ people.
“We make it more than a sport, we make it a social, we invite and include everybody no matter how good you are at the sport, no matter your skin colour, race, sexuality or disability, we are a social that is open to all.
“You don’t need to commit to coming each time and you don’t need to have a level of fitness.
“We just want our community to have a good time, throw some balls, build friendships and feel safe in the community.”
For Nick Giaquinto, becoming a host feels like a full circle moment.
He added: “As a host and a director, seeing new faces come along to the socials, just like I once did, and being able to welcome and encourage them is rewarding in itself.
“It really feels like a full circle moment that I am a face that people trust to bring a community together.
“GCB has given me so much confidence, growth, and most importantly an incredible group of friends.
“I’m so grateful to be part of this community.”
The ethos of inclusivity is echoed across other groups in the UK.
Simon, who is involved in events in the Cardiff group said: “The events are really good fun, a great way to meet and socialise.
“There’s no pressure to be good at bowling as everyone is there to lift and support each other.”
With conversations around diversity and inclusion in sport continuing, groups such as GCB highlight the importance of accessible environments to help those who may have felt excluded elsewhere.
Liverpool’s next GCB event
The next meet up for GCB in Liverpool will be on Wednesday 20th of May at Star pins on School Lane.
(Featured Image, sent by Nick Giaquinto)
