This Saturday, 13th April 2024, the Kings Cross Steelers and International Gay Rugby UK League (IGR) community come together to celebrate the legacy of a dear friend and much-loved sportsman, with the inaugural Simon Dunn Memorial Match and Trophy.

Simon, who sadly passed away in 2023, was a passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sport. He was a vital part of the Steelers’ 2017/18 unbeaten Essex season, which saw the club promoted to its highest position. Simon went on to be a part of the 2018 Bingham squad, which saw the team make their way to the semi-finals, a journey that was ultimately featured in the Amazon Prime documentary, Steelers: The World’s First Gay Rugby Club. Simon was also a member of our friends, the Sydney Convicts, for over ten years.

As a champion of inclusivity in sport, there’s no better way to honour Simon’s legacy than bringing together the IGR community for a Barbarians game. Players from across the IGR UK Leagues will compete in two mixed teams for the Simon Dunn Memorial Trophy and raise money for two incredibly important charities.

This weekend’s activities support the Terrence Higgins Trust and Looseheadz. Simon was an incredible ally to people living with HIV, through his work with the Terrence Higgins Trust in the UK and the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation in Australia. Funds raised will also go to Steelers’ partner charity Looseheadz, who aim to place a mental health lead in every rugby club.

Players and spectators are asked to donate whatever they can afford to these two great causes on the day, with volunteers on-site all day taking payment by cash or card. Donations can also be made online - look out for the link on our social media.

Thanks to our friends at Veo, the match will be available to watch live online. The Simon Dunn Memorial Match kicks off at 13:10 BST / 22:10 AEST on Saturday 13th April 2024. Keep an eye on our socials for ways to watch.

The Barbarians game is part of the previously announced IGR UK League Finals weekend, hosted by the Kings Cross Steelers. A final summary of information on this packed weekend of rugby will be released in the following days.