Mersey Marauders FC to take on Sefton UNISON in friendly match supporting Football v Homophobia

Mersey Marauders FC are excited to announce a friendly match against UNISON’s Sefton Local Government Branch on Sunday 15th February, with kick-off at 2.15pm at the Marine Travel Arena.

The fixture will be played in support of the Football v Homophobia campaign, an international initiative that challenges discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and works to make football safe, welcoming and inclusive for everyone involved in the game. February is recognised as Football v Homophobia’s annual Month of Action, during which clubs and organisations across the sport come together to share the message of Football for Everyone and reaffirm their commitment to inclusion.

The match also celebrates the growing partnership between Mersey Marauders FC and UNISON (Sefton Local Government Branch), now in its third year, highlighting the power of sport to bring communities and organisations together in support of shared values.

Mersey Marauders FC have been shortlisted for the ‘Grassroots Game’ award at the national Football v Homophobia awards this year. The awards ceremony will take place in London on Friday 6th February - with members of the Marauders heading down in the hope of bringing first prize back to Merseyside. 

Francis Wight, Chair of Mersey Marauders FC, said:
 “We’re delighted to be taking on our partners Sefton Unison in February in support of the Football v Homophobia campaign. Our purpose is to provide a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ people to play football, and the support of Sefton Unison has been invaluable in helping the club to grow opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community in the region. The match will be a great opportunity to celebrate our partnership and the brilliant Football V Homophobia campaign.”

Matt Jenkinson, Branch Officer, Sefton UNISON, said:

“Sefton UNISON has been pleased to see the remarkable work Mersey Marauders Football Club has done in attracting and supporting players from all parts of the LGBTQ+ community. It is a pleasure to work with an organisation that shares the same values of inclusivity, empowerment and equality that Sefton UNISON holds dear.”

All supporters are welcome to come along, cheer on both sides and celebrate inclusive football at Marine. 

For more information, follow Mersey Marauders FC on Instagram or visit the Football v Homophobia website.