Although sand courts are common for same-gender teams, it was a unique experience to see queers teaming up in the sport.
Ramas participated in her first competition, teaming up with Villarias. During the matches, both of them wore sports bras and shorts, which showed that the category fully embraced their preferences and disregarded accepted gender norms.
As they proudly waved their rainbow flag of success, the voices of the queer community began to echo.
New category for self-expression
Events like pageants, television shows and drag performances are common platforms for the queer community to showcase their talents and entertainers. However, having an exclusive category for them in sports creates a new narrative.
Both Ramas and Villarias believe that the LGBTQIA+ category in beach volleyball is their opportunity to prove to the world that they can excel on the sand court, beyond just bringing smiles and laughter to people’s faces.
“It is very nice, especially since we are now credited and able to showcase our skills and passion,” said Villarias.
They see this as a platform to fight for equality and to demonstrate that any sport should not be limited by gender. The establishment of an exclusive category allows the spotlight to finally shine on them, enabling them to radiate their colorful presence while being less concerned about people’s judgments.
“I’m happy that LGBTQIA+ members who play beach volleyball are given importance. And they can now show off their talents, abilities and skills in playing the sport,” said Ramas.
“Since this is my first time playing beach volleyball under the LGBTQIA+ category, I’m excited and unsure about how it feels because there are many potential players who are gay, bisexual, or, like me, lesbian,” said Ramas.
This new category is one of the spaces they have longed for, where they no longer have to struggle to fit in. Playing in this category has given them enough confidence to show that they, too, are as flexible as sunlight passing through a prism.
Sports equality
Reflecting on their previous games, Ramas and Villarias shared that playing in the LGBTQIA+ category felt different. In their respective categories, they felt overshadowed by their teammates. “It’s because he’s gay!” or “The other team has an advantage because they have a male import,” were common phrases they received.
“Through this, we can see true equality in sports, where gender is not a determining factor in who can play,” said Ramas.
In agreement, Villarias added, “I’m all for equality, but there should also be boundaries and knowing where you belong.”
Their fight for equality does not mean they are trying to steal the spotlight from dominant genders. Instead, they simply want to enjoy the same privileges and stand on equal ground.
Villarias emphasized, “Leagues for the LGBTQIA+ community should continue, and their talent and passion for playing should not be disregarded.”