Breaking Barriers on the Court

The Dundee Deuces are a fun, friendly, and inclusive tennis and pickleball club for LGBTQIA+ people and their allies.

Founded in 2024, the club recognised that sport can often feel like an unwelcoming space for LGBTQIA+ individuals. They wanted to be part of the movement to change that, creating a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels encouraged to get involved.

Gurch from the Dundee Deuces highlighted the importance of such spaces, stating: “It’s important to recognise that not everyone is starting from an equal place when it comes to sport. Recent research from Stonewall shows that one in four LGBTQIA+ people don’t feel comfortable attending a sporting event to watch sport, and a similar proportion are not comfortable with participating in local sports groups. That is where spaces like the Dundee Deuces can help with introducing and getting people back into sport. And that is so important for mental and physical wellbeing.

LGBTQIA+ people are often less physically active and more likely to have experienced physical and mental health issues. Our members know this is a space where the banter is not at their expense, where slurs are not accepted as part of the culture, and where they are supported by coaches regardless of previous ability and experience. Their experience on joining is one of a supportive and kind atmosphere where participation and belonging is celebrated.”

With a welcoming environment and a focus on inclusion, these sessions continue to make a meaningful impact, encouraging more people to get involved in sport in a way that feels safe, supportive, and enjoyable.

At Sport and Active Health (SpAH), we recognise how important it is to feel a sense of belonging, both physically and mentally. Groups like Dundee Deuces foster this, and we’re proud to support their journey by providing access to our tennis courts.

What started as a free welcome event during Pride Month on 29 June 2024, offering people the chance to try tennis, has since expanded into complimentary weekly sessions. Held every Saturday from 14:00-16:00 at Sport and Active Health, University of Dundee, the sessions have maintained strong attendance through the winter, averaging 16 players per week (with over 20 in the summer). Whether you're new to the sport, returning after a break, or an experienced player, everyone is welcome!

Kelly Moonlight, Sport Development Manager at SpAH, said: “The Dundee Deuces are a sports club that align with Sport and Active Health's core purpose of transforming lives through sport, exercise, and physical activity. They also embody our core values: Value Everybody, Be Extraordinary, and Join Forces. We've been delighted to partner with them in supporting the health and wellbeing of more staff and students on campus while also providing a welcoming space for members of the Dundee community.”

Coaches are on hand each week to guide players through soft skills, new techniques, and game-play strategies, ensuring sessions are engaging and accessible for all skill levels.

Fancy joining in?

The sessions are completely free - just book your spot on their website so the club can plan sessions and ensure enough courts are available. You can also follow along with their journey and latest updates on Instagram.