Perth pupils win inclusive competition silverware
Floorballtourneymarkedlgbtq+ Purplefridayevent
Fair City pupils are celebrating after winning an inclusive sports competition for the first time.
Members of the PRISM Group at Perth High School proudly took ownership of the Purple Friday Salver recently following a victory against Perth Grammar.
The coveted prize is awarded annually following a floorball tournament between the two Fair City educational institutions.
Organised by Perth Parrots Floorball Club, the competition was envisaged to celebrate LGBT Youth Scotland’s Purple
Friday event, held on the last Friday in February each year.
This year’s victory marks the first time Perth High pupils have won the trophy off the back of what was described as an extremely close match between the two schools.
Martin Shaw, the head teacher at Perth High, said: “Our pupils have really enjoyed participating in the Perth Parrots floorball tournament for the last three years, and we are delighted that the salver is finally in our hands.
“Our pupils benefit greatly from the opportunity to participate in such an inclusive sport, and from the chance to engage positively with pupils from other schools.
“The tournament has become an important part of our annual calendar, allowing us to celebrate Purple Friday in a unique and meaningful way.”
He added: “We can’t wait until next year!’ Frazer Robertson is president of Perth Parrots.
He said: “Our club has established an excellent relationship with the two schools and the annual Purple Friday floorball tournament is something we look forward to hosting each year. “The tournament allows our club to continue showcase LGBTIQ+ sporting talent while challenging outdated and inaccurate perceptions.
“Ultimately for us, sport and its many benefits should be open to all.”
Frazer continued: “Thanks to funding from the Perth and Kinross Council Community Investment Fund, we were able to offer all participants a bespoke Purple Friday t-shirt which was wellreceived by all.
“We build on the tournament each year and it is our hope that we encourage other schools across Perthshire to join us for next year’s event.”
Perth Parrots offers a safe and welcoming space for members of the LGBTIQ+ community and its allies.
The indoor sport itself is similar in style to ice hockey, without ice or skates, and see players use a ball rather than a puck.
PRISM is Perth High School’s LGBTIQ+ and ally group, which meets once a week at lunchtime and was started by pupils to facilitate opportunities for support and friendships.
For more information on Perth Parrots, send and email to perthparrots@gmail. com.
The tournament has become an important part of out annual calendar