The Moseley Shoals: Birmingham's Vibrant Gay Swimming Club

A History of Friendship and Fun in the Water

The Moseley Shoals, a thriving gay swimming club in Birmingham, boasts a unique story intertwined with the historic Moseley Road Pool.

This Grade II listed building, Birmingham's oldest operating pool, has served as the heart of the club for over four years.

From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Community

Founded in April, the club's journey began with a simple desire to create a social space for LGBTQ+ individuals in Birmingham and the surrounding Midlands.

Unlike the more 'scene-focused' gay social groups, the Moseley Shoals aimed to be a welcoming and inclusive environment for members of all abilities, from those who simply enjoy a friendly chat while swimming to those with ambitions to compete at a higher level.

A Pool for All Abilities and Interests

Starting with public sessions and word-of-mouth, the group quickly grew to a regular crowd of 15 swimmers on Mondays.

The pool staff's recognition of the club's popularity led to the acquisition of private sessions, increasing the membership to around 80 people and cementing the Shoals' position as one of the largest social gay groups in the Midlands.

Now, the club hosts a full range of weekly and weekend swimming sessions, catering to a diverse membership.

Whether it's leisurely swimming, competitive training, or simply enjoying the social atmosphere, the Moseley Shoals offers an environment for everyone.

Beyond the Water: Socialising and Competitions

The Moseley Shoals is not just about swimming; it's a vibrant social hub.

The club organises regular events like Christmas parties, summer barbecues, and picnics, creating opportunities for its members to connect outside of the pool. Their dedication doesn't stop there; they have also formed a competitive swim team "Moseley Sharks", complete with cheerleaders "Shoalettes", to showcase their swimming prowess.

Celebrating Success and Giving Back

The club's achievements extend beyond the pool.

The Moseley Shoals has competed in the European Gay Swim Championships, bringing home medals and demonstrating their commitment to sportsmanship and inclusivity. Their presence is also felt annually at Birmingham Pride, where they showcase their creative water-themed floats, earning praise from onlookers.

Furthermore, the group actively supports local LGBTQ+ organisations by donating funds raised through sponsored swims to Gay Switchboard.

This community spirit and social aspect is a key part of the Shoals' ongoing success.

A Plea for the Pool's Preservation

The Moseley Shoals emphasizes the crucial role of Moseley Road Pool in their existence. Its historical significance, friendly staff, and unique atmosphere create an environment that has attracted members from across the region.

The club fears losing this invaluable resource due to potential pool closure and urges for its preservation.

Join the Shoals!

Weekly evening and weekend sessions are available at Moseley Road Pool (Mondays and Thursdays). New members are warmly welcomed.

Moseley Shoals is more than a swimming club; it's a community.

If you're looking for a friendly and supportive environment in the water, look no further.