Flying the flag
This season, let’s show the true spirit of West Bromwich Albion by standing proudly behind every team that wears our badge. Proud Baggies FC – our official LGBTQ+ football club – embodies the values of inclusion, respect, and unity that make The Albion a club for all: a community where everyone belongs.
Proud Baggies FC recently became founding members of the GFSN Development League, aimed at LGBTQ+ inclusive clubs across the country, and in November won their opening league fixture at St. George’s Park, home of England Football.
Tom Hogan, Head of Football Operations for Proud Baggies, said: “In November, we played our first competitive match in the GFSN development league. The game took place at St George’s Park National Football Centre, where we came from behind to beat Leicester Wildecats 2-1.
“The friendlies we’d played in the build-up had seen us turn in good performances, but not necessarily get the results we wanted, so it was really pleasing to see us dig in and get the win against a very experienced team.
“The club has made big strides in a relatively short time and we’re looking to continue progressing in our upcoming matches and tournaments.”
The inclusive football club won their first piece of silverware in February of last year, winning the development trophy at Nottingham Lions’ five-a-side Football v Homophobia tournament, and went on to become finalists at the GFSN Development Tournament in Leicester in July.
Proud Baggies FC is open to adults of all ages regardless of ability, gender or sexuality. We train at George Salter Academy every Monday evening and have casual indoor kick-about sessions at the WBA Community Sports Hall every Friday.
As we continue to grow, we are on the lookout for new players to join us – as well as volunteer coaches, media support and sponsors – so if you think this is something for you, please email us at info@proudbaggies.com or DM us on social media. Come along and trial a session and meet the team – we’d love to welcome new members!
Let’s raise our voices for all of our teams that adorn the famous stripes, from the men’s and women’s first teams and academy to the Foundation’s disability and community teams. Each squad represents the heart of Albion - passion, resilience, and the belief that football is for everyone. Whether it’s on the pitch, in the stands, or across our community, your support helps create a welcoming environment where every player and fan can thrive.
Join us in flying the flag for diversity and inclusion. Together, we are stronger. Together, we are Albion!
Proud to be a Baggie
Tuesday's game against Charlton is the club's designated EFL Rainbow Ball fixture, where Albion will again show their support for Proud Baggies, the Football v Homophobia campaign and the wider LGBTQ+ community.
The men’s first team players will wear Proud Baggies warm-up t-shirts, also promoting the Football Supporters’ Association’s Fans for Diversity campaign, in partnership with Kick It Out.
In December, Proud Baggies - the UK’s most awarded LGBTQ+ Supporters’ Group - were the recipients of the FSA’s Fans for Diversity Award, after winning the Championship award earlier in the year.
Sarah Kerton, Vice-Chair of Proud Baggies & Fan Advisory Board Member, said: “Winning the Fans for Diversity Award is a truly special moment for everyone involved with Proud Baggies. To be recognised by the FSA and Kick It Out, alongside so many inspiring groups, is a testament to the passion of our members and the incredible support we receive from the club and the wider Albion family.
"Having an LGBTQ+ supporters' group at West Bromwich Albion matters because football should be a place where everyone feels they belong. For too long, many in our community felt they had to hide who they were to support the team. Proud Baggies is a really active community that provides a safe, welcoming space for fans to be their authentic selves while cheering on the Baggies. This award proves that when we work together to champion inclusion, we make the game better for every single person at The Hawthorns.”
Campaigns such as the EFL Rainbow Ball, Football v Homophobia and Fans for Diversity are vital because they champion the values of inclusion, respect and acceptance within football. They help ensure that clubs like ours are welcoming spaces where everyone – regardless of gender, sexuality, or background – feels they belong and are welcome.
Dedicated matchdays and visible support from clubs – such as players wearing Proud Baggies t-shirts – send a powerful message that diversity is celebrated. These actions foster a sense of community and belonging, showing that football is for everyone and that fans can be their authentic selves without fear. We are a club with a proud history of breaking down barriers and being a trailblazer for inclusion.
These campaigns shine a light on the discrimination that LGBTQ+ fans and players can face. For example, a 2025 survey found 74.4% of LGBTQ+ respondents had experienced or heard anti-LGBTQ+ abuse when watching football, yet only 23.3% reported these incidents. By raising awareness and encouraging reporting, campaigns help tackle abuse and make stadiums safer and more welcoming.
If you witness any homophobic, transphobic or discriminatory abuse at The Hawthorns, please report to your nearest steward, text 07929 221878 or report via the Kick It Out App.
You can show your support for Proud Baggies, find out more or join us at www.proudbaggies.com and across social media @WBALGBT.
Now - if you’re Proud to be a Baggie, clap your hands!
