Trailblazing former footballer Zander Murray is heading to Moray to lead two powerful talks on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people in sport.
Murray, who made headlines in 2022 as the first senior Scottish professional footballer to come out as gay, will speak in Elgin on Wednesday 7 May.
The talks are part of a wider push by the Moray Pride Inclusion Hub to tackle homophobia in sport and foster greater inclusivity at all levels.
Once a rising star with Motherwell’s youth team and later a striker for Airdrie and Bonnyrigg Rose, Murray’s decision to come out marked a turning point in Scottish football.
He has since retired from professional football and has become one of the most in-demand public speakers in the UK on issues of inclusivity in sport.
His accolades include Alumni of the Year from Edinburgh Napier University and recognition by Attitude Magazine as one of the world’s LGBTQ trailblazers.
One of his most iconic moments — scoring his 100th goal — was immortalised when the shirt he wore was placed in the Scottish Football Museum.
The first of his two Elgin appearances will take place at the UHI Moray campus from 2.45pm to 4.15pm.
Later that evening, Murray will deliver a second session at Elgin City FC’s Hospitality Suite at Borough Briggs between 7pm and 8.30pm.
Both events are free and open to the public with no booking required.
Murray is keen to share the personal struggles he faced as a young footballer trying to suppress his identity in a sport often steeped in macho culture.
He describes his teenage years as a time of conflict, being immersed in changing room chat that left no room for difference or diversity.
He said that while his teammates didn’t realise the harm of their words, the environment pushed him to the fringes.
He eventually stepped away from the sport he loved, only to return years later stronger, more open, and determined to make a difference.
Murray hopes his story can spark real change and inspire others who feel excluded from sport because of who they are.
Councillor Kathleen Robertson praised the event, saying it brings vital conversations to the forefront and plays a role in shaping a more inclusive future for sport.
Organiser Jack Whyte of UHI Moray explained the afternoon talk is aimed at young people, with a focus on defining and understanding homophobia in sport.
The evening session will be of particular interest to sports clubs and the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting practical steps to create inclusive environments.
The Moray Pride Inclusion Sports Hub continues its work in connecting LGBTQ+ individuals with local clubs to ensure everyone can access welcoming spaces in sport.
Anyone looking to get involved is encouraged to contact Community Sports Hub Development Officer Robin Paterson for more information.
