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Putting the LGBTQ+ in team Kurt Matthews, BLAGSS’ treasurer and men’s football co-ordinator, on why BLAGSS football is inclusive, friendly and confidence boosting
) Back in 2013 we started out with a small group of players training in mixed sessions inside a sports hall and since then we have grown to now have separate men’s and women’s outdoor sessions, both regularly attended by other 14 players each week. We train every Thursday, when Covid restrictions allow, on the 3G astro turf pitch at the Manor Gym in Kemptown. The men train from 6–7.30pm and the women train from 7.30–9pm. Both sessions are mixed in terms of ability and age group and are aimed at having fun. We start with a warm-up session and then move on to a small-sided game. Both teams regularly play in friendlies and competitions against other local teams (from five-
a-side to 11-a-side), including an annual Football vs Homophobia game versus Sussex FA at their headquarters in Lancing. All of these games put participation above competitiveness, although we will always try our best in the games we play. For the first time last year the men’s team entered the nationwide Gay Football Supporters’ Network (GFSN) 11-a-side League playing home games against teams Bristol, Leicester and Cardiff and away games in London and Leeds, all followed by the customary social event where everyone from both teams mixes in a friendly social environment, often with a beverage or two. Unfortunately, the season was cut short in March just after we had defeated London
Leftfooters 2-0 in the first leg of our play-off. We look forward to getting back into the league when it is safe to do so. The football team is great to be part of as it allows like-minded LGBTQ+ people to play football in an inclusive, friendly, confidence-boosting environment. The social side is also fantastic with regular social events and interaction between all members of the team, a lot of long-lasting friendships and relationships have been formed over a common love for football.
If you would like to find out more, please visit the BLAGSS website at www.blagss.org. Thanks for reading and stay safe.
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