On 6th April, London’s LGBTQ+ sporting community gathered at Proud City for a night of celebration, connection, and recognition, the Out For Sport Awards 2024/25.
From martial arts to netball, rowing to dance, the awards honoured clubs, teams, and individuals making LGBTQ+ sport more inclusive across London and the South East. Congratulations to all our winners and everyone who was shortlisted.
Club awards
Club of the Year: Ishigaki Jujitsu
With 130 members and a record 24 new joiner days in 2024, Ishigaki Jujitsu has shown strong visibility at Pride events and achieved over 100 successful belt graduations. Their 30th anniversary celebration in 2024, bringing together members and community leaders, highlighted their thriving legacy and leadership in inclusive martial arts.
Shortlist: Goslings London Badminton Club, Kings Cross Steelers RFC, Ishigaki Jujitsu, London Knights Basketball Club
Emerging Club of the Year: North London Lob-sters
Since being established in 2022, North London Lob-sters have grown to 400 members and expanded to four sessions a week. Their focus on beginner and intermediate coaching, use of tech to remove barriers, and value for money have set them apart.
Shortlist: East End Electric, North London Lob-sters, Unicorns LGBTQIA+ Netball Club
Most Inclusive Club: South London Smashers
By offering affordable training and socials, South London Smashers ensure cost is never a barrier. They create a supportive environment for neurodivergent members and focus on listening, learning, and adapting to make everyone feel valued and included.
Shortlist: Out To Swim Angels, Pride in Strength, South London Smashers, UK Equality Dance Council
Tournament of the Year: Unicorns Pride Tournament 2024
The largest social netball event in the South East, raising over £2,000 for charity. It brought together 26 clubs and 250 people from around the world, featuring teams from multiple countries, top international players, elite umpires, and six sponsors.
Shortlist: South London Smashers and North London Lob-sters Tournament, Unicorns Pride Tournament 2024
Most Charitable Club: LDN RIDERS
By cycling 360 kilometres from London to Manchester, LDN RIDERS raised funds for the Orchid Cancer Charity while standing in solidarity with a rider diagnosed with cancer. They raised significant money, raised awareness, and provided emotional support, showing the strength of community both on and off the bike.
Shortlist: LDN RIDERS, Unicorns LGBTQIA+ Netball Club
Team award
Team of the Year: Camden Shorinji Kempo
Camden Shorinji Kempo entered their first international tournament at the British Shorinji Kempo Federation’s 50th Anniversary celebration, earning a bronze medal in the Dante Embu group demonstration. Despite having the fewest high-ranking members, they competed against seasoned teams with more experience, marking their first ever medal and proving their place on the international stage.
Shortlist: Camden Shorinji Kempo, Ishigaki Jujitsu Eurobudo team, London Royals Hockey Club Men’s 1s
Individual awards
Outstanding Sporting Achievement: Penny Johnson (UK Equality Dance Council)
As a prominent figure in the same-sex dance community, Penny has made significant strides in mainstream competitions, often as the only female student leader in the student/teacher categories. Her passion for breaking down barriers and challenging outdated norms is opening doors for more women to take the lead in dance.
Shortlist: Ian Hogg (OutPlay Squash), Luis Lopez (South London Smashers), Penny Johnson (UK Equality Dance Council)
Newcomer of the Year: Lucy Bassett-Butt (Camden Shorinji Kempo)
Since joining the club, Lucy’s positivity and support for fellow members have made her a beloved presence. She recently completed her first grading with flying colours and actively represents Camden at trans and LGBTQ+ events, advocating for inclusivity while sharing her passion for martial arts with the broader community.
Shortlist: Allie Loweth (London Otters Rowing Club), James Barron (North London Lob-sters), Lucy Bassett-Butt (Camden Shorinji Kempo)
Club Spirit: Jamie Johnstone (London Otters Rowing Club)
Joining the club in 2021 with no prior rowing experience, Jamie has risen to become Club Captain, overseeing training, coaching, racing, and logistics. His efforts have grown the club to over 250 members while fostering a positive, inclusive atmosphere. Whether managing regattas or handling last-minute challenges, Jamie approaches everything with calm, kindness, and a great sense of humour.
Shortlist: Dave Crewe (OutPlay Squash), Ania Magdziarz (London Cruisers Basketball Club), Jamie Johnstone (London Otters Rowing Club)
Ivan Bussens Lifetime Achievement: Ryan Watson (South London Smashers)
Ryan Watson has transformed South London Smashers into one of the largest LGBTQ+ tennis communities in the country with over 500 members. Beyond club management, he has played a key role in establishing North London Lob-sters and Pride in Tennis, and has raised funds for Stonewall by running three marathons. A true leader and advocate for LGBTQ+ tennis in the UK.
Shortlist: Ryan Watson (South London Smashers)