Combating Homophobia and Transphobia in European Grassroots Sport through GAME Improvement
At the recent EGLSF Annual General Assembly (AGA) 2025 in Valencia, Spain, a pivotal workshop titled "Combating Homophobia and Transphobia in European Grassroots Sport through GAME (Governance, Advocacy, Membership, and Events) Improvement" was held on February 28, 2025. This workshop marked an important step in the ongoing efforts of the PLUSS project—LGBTQI+ Policy and Leadership in Sport and Society—which is funded by the Erasmus+ Sport programme and led by the European Gay and Lesbian Sports Federation (EGLSF).
The workshop attracted around 40 participants, including members of grassroots sport clubs, LGBTQI+ advocates, and sports leaders, all coming together to exchange ideas and strategies on tackling homophobia and transphobia in sports through improved governance, advocacy, membership, and event management. This session was part of the broader PLUSS initiative, designed to help sports organizations build capacity and improve their inclusivity.
Key Highlights from the PLUSS Workshop
The session began with an overview of the PLUSS project by the EGLSF European Projects Coordinator. The project aims to foster a safer, more inclusive sports environment for LGBTQI+ individuals across Europe. As part of the project, participating organizations have been working to identify and implement best practices in the key areas of Governance, Advocacy, Membership, and Events (GAME), which form the foundation of this approach.
Following the introduction, participants were divided into two thematic groups, where they engaged in focused discussions around the challenges and successes experienced by their own sports clubs. These groups provided a platform for sharing real-world examples of how different clubs are working to make sports more inclusive.
Facilitated by representatives of the PLUSS project’s partner organizations, these sessions offered valuable insights into the lessons learned during the first phase of the project. Partners shared strategies for developing policies, improving club governance, increasing membership, and organizing events that are both welcoming and accessible for LGBTQI+ individuals.
A Data-Driven Approach to Measuring Impact
One of the key outcomes of the workshop was the identification of specific indicators to measure the progress and success of these initiatives. For example, growth in membership and enhanced engagement with mainstream national sports organizations will be monitored to assess the impact of the strategies put in place by each club.
By providing these clubs with measurable indicators, the PLUSS project ensures that efforts to foster an inclusive environment are grounded in tangible outcomes. These indicators not only track progress but also allow for continuous feedback, enabling clubs to adjust and refine their strategies to better serve the LGBTQI+ sports community.
Implementation and Mentorship
Following the workshop, participating organizations began implementing the strategies they developed with support from mentors and through action learning sessions. This ongoing mentorship is a cornerstone of the PLUSS project, ensuring that the strategies put into place are effective and responsive to the challenges and opportunities that each club faces.
The PLUSS project’s capacity-building efforts span over a period of 10 months, during which time clubs will continue to receive guidance, monitor their progress, and refine their approaches based on real-time results. This structure ensures that the project is dynamic and adaptable, responding to the evolving needs of the LGBTQI+ sports community.
Engaging with the Wider Community
The PLUSS workshop was not just about internal strategies; it also aimed to build stronger connections with the wider LGBTQI+ sports ecosystem. Throughout the AGA, participants were encouraged to connect with one another, share ideas, and learn from the experiences of other clubs. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration, both within the LGBTQI+ sports community and with larger, mainstream sports organizations.
Through these interactions, PLUSS partners are working to create lasting change by engaging with national and international sports entities. This engagement ensures that the voices of LGBTQI+ athletes and advocates are heard at every level of sport governance, helping to combat homophobia and transphobia while fostering an environment of equality and respect.
The Path Forward: Monitoring and Sharing Success Stories
As part of the ongoing efforts to inspire grassroots development and growth, the EGLSF has just published the latest in a series of articles about the progress made by the six PLUSS partner organizations. These articles, shared on the EGLSF website, in the newsletter, and through social media, provide updates on the tangible steps taken by each partner in implementing the GAME framework. They also highlight the successes and challenges faced by these organizations, offering valuable insights for others looking to make a similar impact.
We encourage you to explore the latest updates on the PLUSS project through the dedicated section on the EGLSF website (+PLUSS Project - EGLSF.info) and get inspired by the stories of progress and change happening in grassroots sport across Europe.
A Bright Future for LGBTQI+ Inclusion in Sport
The PLUSS workshop at the AGA 2025 was an essential moment in the project’s timeline, fostering the exchange of ideas and reinforcing the commitment of clubs and organizations to make sport a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The insights gained and the strategies developed during this workshop are already driving change, with the momentum continuing to build as the project moves into its next phase.
As the PLUSS project progresses, it will continue to play a vital role in the effort to combat homophobia and transphobia in sports. Through sustained commitment, collaboration, and the strategic implementation of the GAME framework, the project is helping to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future for LGBTQI+ athletes across Europe.
Keep up to date through our social media, newsletter and the PLUSS dedicated section in the
EGLSF webpage! +PLUSS PROJECT - EGLSF.info
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