The north of England’s premier gay football club backing The FA’s campaign against homophobia in the game.
Jason McAuley, from Village Manchester FC, says that they couldn’t have had a better reaction after contacting Manchester City. “We have recently paid a visit to City and taken part in a photo shoot involving their England defender Danny Mills, as well as observing one of their training sessions.“
Alex Williams, Manchester City’s Director of Community Affairs, has offered his encouragement to Village Manchester. “Manchester City FC are proud to have an association with Village Manchester, as part of our all-encompassing social inclusion programme.”
“The club has established the ‘One City’ initiative to encourage social inclusion and is very proud of the positive work we undertake with diverse communities throughout Greater Manchester.
“Manchester City works with the local lesbian and gay community by offering football coaching for Village Manchester, and hold tours of the City of Manchester Stadium during the city’s annual Gay Pride event. We are therefore delighted to be supporting The FA’s long overdue initiative in tackling homophobia in football.”
A Manchester United spokesperson adds that there is no place in the game for homophobic chanting, abuse or discrimination in football. “As a club we believe passionately that all forms of abuse – racial, religious and homophobic are just examples- are unacceptable.
“We are proud to have a diverse and passionate following that cuts across all boundaries and we give our support to any campaign or programme that seeks to ensure football is free from all forms of abuse and discrimination.”
Jason adds that Manchester Village are determined to become a club which can be an outlet for individuals who find it difficult to get involved in the game. “We can provide an environment for competitive players to compete in our local league and help remove those prejudices that exist.
Lucy Faulkner, The FA’s Ethics and Sports Equity Manager, says that she was delighted to hear about the club’s visit to Manchester City. “This is a great example of what clubs can do to share best practice."
To report instances of abuse, discrimination and racism in football call
Freephone 0800 085 0508 or email FootballForAll@TheFA.com
