FvH23.V2

Surrey FA and Kingstonian FC Unite Against Homophobia

A dedicated match was played in the month of action

We were proud to support Kingstonian FC, in their commitment to the Football v Homophobia (FvH) month of action at their nominated Isthmian League fixture against Herne Bay this week.

Football v Homophobia is a campaign uniting fans, players, communities, grassroots teams, professional clubs and the football authorities in opposing homophobia and prejudice against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQ+) people in football.

Working collaboratively, both Kingstonian FC and Surrey FA encouraged supporters to make pledges in support of the campaign and provide insights to support inclusion and combat discrimination, with a total of 40 pledges taken at the fixture.

The game itself was an even contest, with Kingstonian taking the lead through Alex MacAllister early in the second half before Herne Bay responded late in the game with an equalizer from Marcel Barrington. Both teams had ample opportunity to win the game but ultimately had to settle for the draw.

Speaking on the event, Surrey FA Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Eve Roberts, said:

“It’s great that our Surrey clubs are so supportive of this campaign. Working with Kingstonian to support their dedicated fixture has been seamless and helped to reinforce the message that football really is a game for all.

We encourage other clubs to fly the flag for inclusion, by working with Surrey FA to support our ongoing initiatives to drive equality throughout grassroots football.”

Kingstonian FC representative, John McCormack, added:

“We had a very successful, enjoyable and productive evening. Eve's attendance lifted all our volunteers' spirits, and also brought vibrant colour to the event with rainbow flags, a rainbow football and Football v Homophobia t-shirts, making it a night to remember. 

With Eve's help, we collected over 40 pledges, which we will be following up with supporters in the coming weeks. Most were about wanting to know more about the campaign, or challenging discriminatory language, and one pledged to join our Equality & Diversity team, which is great news.

The most touching pledge was left anonymously, and we have edited it slightly so as not to reveal the person's identity. It read: ‘To look after my LGBT son, and ensure my other Club that I'm involved with, is fully supportive of these initiatives also. I pledge to welcome all to our Club environment’.

If you recognise this pledge, we would love to hear from you as you have won four tickets to future Kingstonian matches. Please contact us via email at supporters@kingstonian.com or by phoning 07308 302923."

For further information about the Football v Homophobia campaign please contact FvH:

Football.v.Homophobia
E: info@footballvhomophobia.com