EWRFC News
Emerald Warriors Celebrates Bronze Medal Success at the Gay Games XII – Valencia 2026
Photos courtesy of Caio Polcheira, Jorge Ayon and Michael Kiernan.
Thanks to our long-time supporter the George for sponsoring the Ireland Gay Games Kit.
This year, a team of Warriors travelled to la terreta to compete in the 12th Gay Games, one of the world's largest LGBTQ+ sports and cultural events. Rugby union was introduced to the Games for the very first time, making this a historic tournament for the sport.
Many of our members travelled to Valencia early to make the most of the experience, participating in the Gay Games Opening Ceremony and marching alongside more than 100 athletes representing Ireland.
Representing Ireland on the World Stage
The three-day tournament took place in the evenings due to the high temperatures, with matches played in 33°C heat. I now know why rugby is a winter sport — bring back the wind and rain! From the outset, the Emerald Warriors brought the competitive spirit we are known for. To complete our playing squad, we welcomed players from the United States and fellow IGR clubs including the Munich Monks, Adelaide University Sharks and RebeLyons.
Bringing Home Bronze
Led by our inspirational Captain, Justin Bjerkhoel, the team delivered an outstanding performance throughout the tournament. Their efforts were rewarded with a 24–0 victory over Kings Cross Steelers Green in the third-place play-off, securing the bronze medal and setting a high standard for rugby's first appearance at the Gay Games.
A Team Effort to Be Proud Of
This Emerald Warriors team, made up predominantly of our Navy & Development Squad members, as well as our new Barbarian friends, were such a hardworking, passionate and driven-squad, I could not have asked for a better team to lead into the Gay Games.
Having debriefed after our tournament, I firmly believe this achievement is going to be a huge motivational factor for team members going forward and striving for bigger successes and personal wins in the Leinster Metro Season 2026-2027… but no doubt, like me, they’ll enjoy the cooler Irish weather to do that in.
Head down, Leinster Metro season incoming and next stop --> Union Cup 2027, Lisboa.
Once again, a huge congratulations to our travelling squad on your well-deserved bronze medal, but even more so, for being yourselves and amazing Emerald Warrior representatives.
On a personal note, thank you to the EWRFC Committee and Coaching Team for trusting me with this new challenge and responsibility.
Michael Kiernan
Team Manager/Coach & Player, Gay Games XII
