Proud Baggies land fans’ award for second year in a row
Proud Baggies, Albion’s official LGBTQ+ Supporters’ Group, have been named best fan group at the Football v Homophobia awards for a second successive year.
The group, which was founded in 2017, has worked alongside the club and The Albion Foundation to promote LGBTQ+ inclusivity and break down barriers for all Baggies supporters.
And founder Piero Zizzi believes their work has become even more important due to the coronavirus pandemic, with many people struggling with loneliness as they continue to stay indoors.
“It is an absolute honour to win this for the second consecutive year,” he said.
“On behalf of everybody at Proud Baggies, I would like thank all those who nominated us for this award.
“I would also like to thank the judges for naming us the winner.
“A huge thank-you must also go to our secretary Neil Basterfield and vice-chair Sarah Robinson and also to our members, everybody at West Bromwich Albion Football Club, the Albion Foundation and to our partner organisations.
“Now more than ever LGBTQ+ supporters’ groups are vitally important.
“With increased isolation and loneliness – and not being able to get along to matches – it is increasingly important we stay connected as a community.
“We have found more in the last year we are not just having an impact on our members’ matchday experiences but also on their everyday lives, their health and their wellbeing.
“To everybody, have a happy Football versus Homophobia month and thank-you very much again.”
To find out more about Proud Baggies visit proudbaggies.com or email info@proudbaggies.com
