Show Racism the Red Card V Street Football Wales

Working alongside both Show Racism the Red Card (SRtRC) and Street Football Wales (SFW), the FAW wanted the match between the organisations to highlight the importance of providing opportunities for its minority communities, outside of the current awareness periods during the Football calendar.

On attending the match, FAW Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Integrity Executive Carys Ingram detailed: “The game was a 90 minute long, 11 a side friendly, held at the House of Sport, Cardiff. Both teams provided players from all walks of life, these including communities from asylum seeker and refugee backgrounds, those who have suffered homelessness, are in recovery from drug and alcohol abuse, amongst many other communities in Wales.

“There was an excitement and hunger from both sides to win the game with Show Racism the Red Card taking a 3-0 lead at half time. However, Street Football Wales brought the game back within one in the second half, with the game finally ending 3-2 in favour of the hosts (SRTRC).

“Though not all in attendance spoke the same language, came from the same background or had even played with their teammates before, it proved that Football is a universal language when the whistle blows and the ball is kicked. Both teams showed a commitment and passion for Football that instilled the message that Football should be for Everyone, Everywhere.”

Street Football Wales representative Dafydd Jones added: “We were delighted to face Show Racism the Red Card in our second ever 11-a-side fixture. They are a brilliant organisation who we were honoured to take to the field with. It was a fantastic event and a brilliant game of football played in a good spirit. We hope that all players enjoyed the experience as much as we did.” –

In the coming months the FAW will aim to provide further opportunities for its minority communities in Wales both on and off the pitch. The FAW will continue working closely with its partners at Show Racism the Red Card to work towards an event this year that will aim to keep discussions going between National Governing Bodies, Clubs, Players, Officials and their communities.

If you, a teammate, colleague or opponent are subject to racism, please don’t ignore it, report it at: ReportIt@faw.co.uk