Lincoln United has become the new home of an LGBTQ+ football team set-up by Lincolnshire FA.
The sessions provide the community with an inclusive place to play the sport.
Zack Leader, organiser and Lincolnshire FA’s LGBTQ+ ambassador, said: “The people who are attending our sessions have the feeling that football isn’t for them. It’s a space for them to enjoy football, enjoy playing and be themselves.”
He added: “It’s for people we have had barriers into the game…we have transgender, non-binary, lesbian, gay, people across the full LGBTQ+ range.”
Fourteen people have taken part in the sessions so far, with it being open to both LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
Zack said: “The emphasis is on fun, enjoyment and being non-competitive.”
He added: “The aim is to get more and more people attending whether that’s people who play every week, don’t play anymore or have never played.”
“Long term, hopefully we will look at developing into a competitive team,” Zack said.
Lincoln United are hosting the inclusion sessions, which take place every Wednesday night, in Lincoln.
On the new ties to Lincoln United, Zack said: “It’s a connection that’s came naturally. Lincoln United are doing everything to be a diverse and inclusive club.”
The organiser added: “They’re keen to be active in this space and be as inclusive as possible.”
The connection between Lincolnshire FA and Lincoln United takes inspiration from teams in neighbouring counties, including Nottingham Lions and Leicester Wildcats.
Kate Jackson, 39, from Lincoln went to the first session. She said: “I’m trans so it’s been a long time since I played football. It was about finding people to play with, bond with and have a common connection to.”
Kate formerly played Sunday league football, but said she enjoys the non-competitive sessions: “It’s less serious. Everyone has fun with it. It’s a chance to meet new people who have something in common.”
Student Kornelia Oldak, 20, has taken part in a number of the football sessions. She said: “I joined because I’ve always struggled with confidence, but I felt welcome because it wasn’t a competitive team. I felt included.”
Kornelia described the sessions as the highlight of her week, and added: “It’s very fun, I look forward to it every week. Being a student, I’m stressed, so I feel I can go there and relax.”
She said: “I’m glad I found it, they make me feel really welcome. I haven’t seen many opportunities like it before.”
Lincoln United and Lincolnshire FA host the sessions at the LNER Stadium’s 3G pitches, on 8pm every Wednesday.
Feature Image courtesy of Zack Leader, Lincolnshire FA.