In honor of LGBTQ History Month, Ryan is excited to speak with David Watters, an LGBTQ+ rugby player, innovation consultant, and business coach based in the UK. While many of our guests transition from sports to other fields, David's story is unique: he transitioned from the boardroom to the rugby pitch. Now playing for the Airmill Warriors, David is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. As an innovator and startup accelerator, he specializes in integrating new technologies into transportation and city infrastructure.

David’s journey marks a significant shift since he first joined LGBTQ rugby. From its humble beginnings with the Kings Cross Steelers in 1995, the International Gay Rugby (IGR) movement has blossomed into a global network of over 100 teams. This growth highlights the broader trend of incorporating diversity and inclusion within traditional rugby clubs and across the sports world.

David’s expertise in building successful sports and corporate teams is evident. He draws insightful parallels between his sports experience and his innovation work, offering practical tips for creating inclusive environments. He emphasizes how rugby clubs can foster a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Tune in to learn more about:

- David's innovative career trajectory and his transition into rugby
- His initial challenges and feelings of exclusion when starting in the sport
- Reflections on traditional rugby cultures and the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ players
- The expansion of the International Gay Rugby (IGR) movement and its impact on creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ players
- The importance of team mentality, recognizing individual strengths, and building a supportive culture
- How the IGR movement has influenced traditional rugby clubs and broader inclusivity in sports
- Practical steps clubs should embrace to foster inclusivity
- David's insightful analogy between sports and business leadership, and the benefits of applying sports lessons to the corporate world and vice versa

Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io

Links:

Davids Linkedln:https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidcwatters

Website: https://igrugby.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igrclubhouse/