Picture / Rod Spark Photography The Sydney Convicts have become the first gay rugby team, and only the second gay team in the world, to play at a professional sporting event. On Sunday, the Convicts beat the Macquarie University Warriors 30-12 during a ‘curtain raiser,’ a game held ahead of the Super 15 match between the Waratahs and Highlanders at Sydney's Allianz Stadium. The game is part of a series of initiatives to tackle homophobia in sport being led by organisers of The Bingham Cup, the world cup of gay rugby, held in Sydney next month - where the NZ Falcons will compete. “It was a tough, physical match with both teams very hungry to win, but the Convicts poured their hearts and souls onto the field, fighting hard from start to finish,” said Convicts Head Coach and retired captain Charlie Winn. “The curtain raiser was a once in a lifetime experience for the team and I’m proud we made the most of this historic opportunity to show gay men can and do play quality rugby. I hope we’ve opened the door to similar games being held in the future around the world.” Watch a video from the day below … And please take a few minutes and take part in the Out in the Fields survey which looks into homophobia in sport – New Zealand is lagging behind and researchers need more Kiwi voices! GayNZ.com staff - 8th July 2014