I remember my first glider flight. The instructor did not brief me on what the sensation of being winch launched would feel like. Consequently I had my eyes closed and was terrified until it was over.
1800 launches later and as an instructor myself I always remember to brief passengers (oops, we do not have passengers, only students) that the glider creeks and groans as it flexes, the angle of climb pushes you back into the seat and if the cable is released under tension, there will be a loud bang and the glider will lurch. If you are aerotowed, it will be a much gentleraffair.
Gliding is a much more team orientated sport and a newcomer can feel abandoned while club members socialise in groups sometimes forgetting to include the newcomer into the conversation. Do not get put off by this, try to get as involved as you can.
Finally, beware, you may become hooked.
Enjoy.