We provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where people may play football regardless of sexual orientation. We run weekly 11-a-side and 5-a-side training sessions for our members. We represent Nottingham in a national gay-friendly league, take part in national tournaments and also play friendly matches against local teams. A further part of our activities is raising awareness of homophobia in sport through talks, media appearances and community activities at both local and national levels.
Why the community needs usHomophobia at professional and grassroots levels can lead to members of the LGBT community being excluded from football. We offer a supportive, inclusive environment where people can play football regardless of sexual orientation, including older players who have previously avoided team sport. Whilst the club brings health benefits by facilitating participation in sporting activity for previously excluded groups, it also brings social benefits as an alternative to the mainstream gay 'scene.'
Our impact on the communityWe have been recognised for our work by the local LGBT community, receiving a Nottinghamshire Rainbow Heritage Award in 2011 and being shortlisted for Best Midlands LGBT Social or Community Group in 2012 by Midlands Zone Magazine. Our community work has received national recognition. In 2011 we were asked to address the national launch of LGBT History Month, and in 2012 we hosted a national panel event for Kick it Out, a UK-wide organisation which campaigns against discrimination in football.
