While I know absolutely nothing about the rules, positions or even direction of play (and I still don’t know how many players are on a team), the game was so much fun! From the very start – with an announcement to remind everyone that any gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans-phobic language is not tolerated – to the gender-neutral toilets, it was clear that the FA had really invested in this game. It was a wonderfully collaborative, competitive and friendly atmosphere from start to finish and even the cold weather couldn’t dampen our spirits. I must admit to getting a bit distracted halfway through the second half (which my Mum reminded me wasn’t called ‘Act 2’), but I was back glued to the pitch to watch when Stonewall FC scored 2 goals in quick succession to solidify their 3-1 win. According to my Dad, Wilberforce Wanderers were “the better players”, but I think he was happy with the result…I certainly was!
By embracing the #RainbowLaces campaign so openly and showing their support for LGBT diversity in so many ways – The Football Assocaition are showing real leadership and I genuinely believe that one of the most homo-, bi-, trans- and queer-phobic industries could be on the cusp of making a change for good.