NSWRL’s Paul Langmack will once again be at the forefront of the NRL’s ‘Pride in League’ float at tomorrow night's (Saturday, 4 March) annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, joining Rugby League greats including Wendell Sailor, Dene Halatau and Dan Hunt.
The three-time premiership winner with Canterbury will join the NRL in a bid to stamp out homophobia in Rugby League, providing a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals and communities - whether as an employee, player, volunteer, fan, member or spectator.
Langmack, a marriage equality Ambassador, was part of the NRL’s inaugural float last year and has been the driving force behind this year’s initiative, along with NRL Welfare and Education Manager Paul Heptonstall.
“The Mardi Gras is great because it helps every person within our Rugby League family feel comfortable whether you’re lesbian, gay or transgender,” Langmack said.
“We as a Rugby League family stand by our teammates on or off the field no matter their sexuality. There are so many people struggling with this issue, so it’s important that Rugby League acknowledges it and provides support for those who need it.”
Also joining Langmack on the float is NSWRL CEO David Trodden, former NRL player Jason King and 16 cheerleaders representing each club from the NRL.
The float will feature astro turf, goalposts lit with the colours of the rainbow simulating a Rugby League field and will also carry the tagline "Pride In League" with the RESPECT hashtag.
