Rainbow Saints, the official LGBTQ+ supporters’ association of Southampton FC, running LGBTQ+ Football Sessions

Rainbow Saints, the official LGBTQ+ supporters’ association of Southampton FC, are a group for everyone under the LGBTQ+ Rainbow who are fans of Southampton FC and allies. The goal of Rainbow Saints is to support the inclusion for fans, staff, and players, at Southampton FC.

The LGBTQ+ Football Sessions are a part of efforts to achieve this by giving folks in and around Southampton the chance to play football in a safe environment. The sessions are a collaboration with Saints Foundation which is the charity of Southampton FC and is part of their SO14 Active Campaign.

One participant said: “I’ve been going to the LGBTQ+ football sessions for the last year and I’ve found it really fun and good for my confidence. It’s been nice to have a place to play football where I feel safe and welcome.”

Another way Rainbow Saints is trying to create a safe space for LGBTQ+ people in football is by attending football matches together. Through a ticket scheme, Rainbow Saints has been able to give people who might not have otherwise felt safe the confidence to attend matches. For some people this has been their first time, or a return after a long period of absence.

More info HERE