Bingham Cup festivities begin on Sunday with welcome drinks. We profile a pair of Falcons players to get you warmed up. Mark Shields Position: Wing/Full Back How long have you played rugby? Only for three months. Favourite Sportsperson? Brain Laudrup (Danish Soccer Player) Best thing about being a Falcon? Love, friendship and camaraderie. Being a NZ Falcon is more than just playing rugby it's a family. Knowing your Falcon brothers would do anything for you on and off the field means a lot. Sam Learmonth Position: Lock How long have you played rugby? 1 year (currently out with a dislocated shoulder from a bad tackle) Favourite Sportsperson? Novak Djokovic (World No 1 tennis player) Best thing about being a Falcon? Since joining the team last year, I have met the most amazing bunch of guys - all from really different backgrounds, but completely accepting. It is great being able to participate in a team sport where you can be completely upfront about your sexuality and not have to worry about it. We have had some really wonderful experiences - from winning our first game, to cooking up a storm for a team fundraiser. While there are plenty of events in the lead-up to the Bingham Cup, the rugby itself begins next Friday. We’ll keep you fully up to date on how the boys go! But we know how much they’ve grown in skill and confidence, with some great wins under their belt in the lead-up to the Cup. Go the Falcons! Follow the team on Facebook here GayNZ.com staff - 22nd August 2014