Welsh wins at Football v Homophobia Awards 2024

The FvH Month of Action offered the opportunity to celebrate with the Football v Homophobia Awards that took place on February 23rd. This year saw four fantastic nominations for individuals and Clubs across Wales. 

Cardiff Dragons FC were the winners of the FvH Cymru Award which celebrates an individual or a club in Wales who has worked to make Welsh football more inclusive for the LGBTQ+ community. 

Speaking on their victory, Chair of the Cardiff Dragons Charlotte Galloway said: “To win the FVH Cymru award and be able to talk about our club up on the stage in front of people from across the UK was really special. I think it helps give visibility to not only the Cardiff Dragons, but also to Wales in the wider UK sense. The fact that all three shortlisted in the Cymru category were so different – not just 3 LGBTQ+ football Clubs – also shows the different ways people in Wales are creating safer spaces for LGBTQ+ people in Football.”

You can meet the Cardiff Dragons in a My Club feature on the FAW’s free streaming service RedWall+. The LGBTQA+ inclusive football club that established in 2008, aims to create a safe and friendly environment for people to be comfortable with their sexuality or gender identity, whilst coming together over their love for the beautiful game.

In the feature Charlotte Galloway, talks about how and why the club was founded. She highlights how the club is unique and is a safe environment where players have the freedom to express themselves without judgement.

Cardiff Dragons Manager and player, Brandon Gregory, opens up about his experience and the struggles he has faced. Brandon was looking for a Cardiff based club that would accept him for who he is and somewhere where he could develop his passion for the game.

Brandon was also nominated for the FVH Cymru Award in addition to Conwy Borough FC.

The Rainbow Wall’s co-chair Tracy Brown won the ‘FvH Hero Award’ for her achievements as an anti-discrimination campaigner, where she continues to fight for a friendlier fan experience free of abuse and hate.

Speaking on winning the award she said: “I was shocked and surprised to win the FVH 2024 Hero Award. For me, it’s been a whirlwind of emotions – from disbelief to overwhelming gratitude. It’s a humbling reminder that the countless hours of work to fight for our LGBTQ+ Football Community can ripple out into something truly extraordinary. In that moment you realise that the impact of your actions extends far beyond yourself, touching the lives of others in ways you may never have imaged. I will keep fighting for our LGBTQ+ community because every step towards equality and acceptance makes our world a brighter and more inclusive place for all.”

You can learn more about the Football v Homophobia campaign: footballvhomophobia.com

Image Credit: Gordon Morino