Millwall have published a first-of-its-kind 'Pride playbook' to help football clubs form stronger partnerships with LGBTQ+ teams across the country.
Pride Month Initiative
The move comes during Pride month as the Lions seek to build on the success of their teams, Millwall Romans and Millwall Pride, and help extend the reach of LGBTQ+ inclusive football amid growing demand.
Playbook Details
The playbook encourages partnership between existing clubs and aspiring teams, creating an identity within the club for that team and ensuring there is a driven coach and an internal champion. The 78-page playbook also includes three 'don'ts' when facing pushback from people who don't like or don't understand change: don't debate endlessly; don't wait for everyone to agree; don't dilute the idea.
Background
The development of Millwall Romans and, subsequently, Millwall Pride has been led by Sean Daly, the chief executive of the Millwall community trust, who began by forging a partnership with an existing team, London Romans. Daly said club and team were asking the same question: 'How do we create a safe environment where people can feel comfortable being who they are?'
According to Jon Holmes of Football v Homophobia, the past 15 years have brought a growing awareness of and support for LGBTQ+ fans, with more than 50 Premier League and EFL clubs operating supporter groups. However, homophobia and transphobia are on the rise in grassroots men's football, making inclusive teams vital.
Community Impact
For Andy Dolan, manager of Millwall Pride, these teams offer a chance to build community and individual strength. 'It's about building resilience in yourself and in others,' he said. 'Clinical psychology will back this up: for these populations, where you have like-minded people with a shared experience, it measurably improves their outcomes.'
The question remains whether LGBTQ+ teams should remain separate or integrate into mainstream leagues. Dolan hopes for a 'flywheel effect' where resilient individuals may eventually join mixed leagues, though he personally prefers the inclusive environment.
