About us
Our Mission
The Auckland Armadillos is a social tennis group created to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for LGBTQIA+ people to play tennis, socialise, and connect with others in the community. We believe in the power of sport to bring people together and promote health, well-being, and friendship. Allies are always welcome to join in and support our mission of inclusivity and acceptance.
Our Vision
We strive to be Auckland’s leading LGBTQIA+ social tennis group, creating a welcoming space where players of all abilities can engage in tennis and other recreational activities. As we grow, we aim to continue fostering connections and improving experiences for rainbow individuals in sport, ensuring that everyone feels safe and valued.
Our History
Founded in June 2024 following the inaugural Rainbow Games 2024, the Auckland Armadillos came to life as the first rainbow tennis group in Auckland. The success of the Rainbow Games, which featured New Zealand’s first GLTA tournament, inspired the creation of this group. Since then, we've experienced rapid growth and interest, becoming a hub for social tennis and community connection.
Our Committee
The Auckland Armadillos is run by a passionate and dedicated group of volunteers who work together to make this vision a reality.
Our Committee
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Thomas Anderson (He/Him)
CHAIRPERSON
After playing in the rainbow games 2024, Tom was inspired by the way sports brought the community together. As a life long lover of tennis, but without any prior tournament experience, it encouraged him to form the armadillos group. His ultimate goal is to give everyone opportunities to reap the benefits of sport in physical and mental wellbeing.
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Jeremy Johnston
TREASURER
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Ronan (He/Him)
SECRETARY
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Yuya Watanabe (He/Him)
OFFICER
A treasurer of Auckland Armadillos, made in Japan. Passionate about inclusiveness and welcoming everyone coming to our tennis court. Yuya is also known as a debt collector, spending his life chasing peoples court booking fees.
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Torrance Merkle (He/Him)
OFFICER
Torrance started playing tennis again in 2024, and after seeing the Rainbow Games tournament, he realised how important it is for our community to have healthy spaces to connect other than the parties and the apps. He then played in his first GLTA tournament in Bali in September 2024, and plans to keep going now that he’s found such a great way to stay fit.
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George
OFFICER
George helps behind the scenes including amazing work organising our box leagues.
