top of page
From the Desk of:
You Can Play


Supporting LGBTQ+ Athletes Around the Holidays: A Guide for Coaches and Mentors
The holiday season can be a time of joy and connection, but for many LGBTQ+ athletes, it can also bring moments of uncertainty. With the rise in public tension and political hostility toward LGBTQ+ people, some athletes may enter the holiday break feeling anxious about going home, managing strained relationships, or losing the sense of safety they feel with their team. Supporting LGBTQ+ Athletes Around the Holidays As a coach or mentor, you have a unique opportunity to create
Ren Dawe
Dec 3, 20254 min read


How Quadball is A Keeper for Inclusive Sport
In a time when the conversation surrounding sports and gender is rife with controversy, quadball is quietly yet powerfully rewriting the narrative. This coed, full-contact sport is thriving against all odds and gearing up for its largest World Cup yet, to be held in Belgium in July 2025. Photo Credits: Major League Quidditch What is Quadball? Originally inspired by the fictional sport quidditch , quadball has grown into a legitimate athletic endeavor that blends elements of r
Ren Dawe
Oct 23, 20253 min read


Creating a Safe Space for LGBTQ+ Youth in Sports
For LGBTQ+ youth, sports can be a powerful source of growth, connection, and empowerment—but only if teams and organizations commit to...
Ren Dawe
Sep 4, 20254 min read


A History of Homophobia and Transphobia in Organized Sports
In this blog, we’ll take a look at the history of homophobia and transphobia in organized sports, the challenges faced by LGBTQ+...
Ren Dawe
Sep 4, 20256 min read


Disrupting Biases: A Free Course by You Can Play & RISE To Win
You Can Play is proud to partner with RISE to launch a new interactive course designed to help athletes, coaches, and sports...
Ren Dawe
Jul 26, 20252 min read


Beyond the Binary: Heteronormativity, Gender Policing, and the Culture of Sport
Understanding Gender Policing in Sports Beyond the Binary: Heteronormativity, Gender Policing, and the Culture of Sport At You Can Play,...
Ren Dawe
Jul 18, 20253 min read


Not All Harm Looks the Same: Understanding Bullying, Harassment, Hazing, and Teasing in Sports
If we want teams to thrive, we need to talk about what these behaviors are, how they’re different, and why they can’t be written off as...
Ren Dawe
Jul 9, 20254 min read


Understanding the Connection Between Homophobia and Sexism in Sports
At You Can Play , we believe that sports should be an arena for everyone, where athletes can compete, grow, and connect without fear of...
Ren Dawe
May 22, 20255 min read


Understanding Transphobia in Sports: How It Shows Up and Why It Matters
At You Can Play, we’re committed to creating a sports environment that is safe, inclusive, and respectful for every athlete, regardless...
Ren Dawe
May 8, 20254 min read


Play With Heart: A Campaign to Make Sports Safe and Welcoming for All
You Can Play is excited to launch a Pride effort like no other in the sports industry: the Play with Heart Campaign, designed with...
Ren Dawe
May 5, 20254 min read


Tactics to Disrupt Homophobia in Sports
Creating inclusive sports environments requires vigilance across every space where athletes gather—from locker rooms to chat rooms, and...
Ren Dawe
Apr 24, 20254 min read


How Does Homophobia Affect Children in Youth Sports?
Creating Safe Spaces for Young Athletes At You Can Play , we believe that all young athletes deserve a safe, supportive environment where...
Ren Dawe
Apr 16, 20255 min read


The Roots & History of Homophobia in Sports
Homophobia in sports may seem like a modern issue, especially as athletes and organizations today make strides toward inclusivity....
Ren Dawe
Jan 29, 20255 min read


How Homophobia Hurts Us All: The Broader Impact on Sports Teams and Culture
At You Can Play , our commitment to fostering inclusive spaces in sports is rooted in a simple yet powerful belief: sports are for...
Ren Dawe
Jan 23, 20255 min read


Understanding Homophobia in Sports: Recognizing and Addressing Subtle and Overt Discrimination
At You Can Play , we believe in creating safe, inclusive environments in sports where everyone is welcomed and respected, regardless of...
Ren Dawe
Jan 7, 20254 min read


Asking Respectful Questions to LGBTQ+ People
Curiosity is natural, and asking questions is one of the best ways to learn and connect with others. However, when it comes to engaging...
Ren Dawe
Dec 5, 20242 min read


Why Pride Games Matter
Why Pride Games Matter: Celebrating Inclusion and Advancing Equality in Sports Sports bring people together, transcending differences to...
Ren Dawe
Dec 5, 20243 min read


Our Fight Has Just Begun
In the wake of a divisive election in the US, harmful legislation in Alberta being introduced, and several companies publicly pulling...
Kurt Weaver
Nov 27, 20243 min read


Ambassador Spotlight: Meghan Petruk
We love connecting with our Ambassadors! This week, we're highlighting Meghan Petruk, a softball player and coach! What is your sport?...
Ren Dawe
Nov 22, 20241 min read


Responding to Homophobia Online: A Guide to Building Inclusive Communities
In the age of social media, conversations around inclusion and pride in sports often attract homophobic comments. These interactions can...
Ren Dawe
Nov 20, 20243 min read
bottom of page
