The beautiful game meets the fight for inclusion at Village Manchester FC

On a rainy Saturday afternoon in Manchester, as players lace up their boots and shout words of encouragement across the pitch, something extraordinary is happening.

It’s more than just a football match, it’s a moment where people from every background, identity, and story come together, bound by a shared love of the beautiful game. For many of the players in Village Manchester Football Club (VMFC), stepping onto that pitch is all about belonging, defying stereotypes, and finding family in a world that doesn’t always understand you.

Founded in 1996, at a time when being openly LGBTQ+ in football was almost unheard of, Village Manchester FC has always been about more than goals and trophies (though they have plenty of those too). It was created to give gay men a space to play without fear of abuse or judgment, but nearly three decades later, it has grown into something much bigger: a home for anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t fit in, where being yourself is not just accepted but celebrated.

Village Manchester FC Breaking Barriers Since 1996

Born out of necessity and courage, Village Manchester FC was established by a small group of friends seeking a space to play football without fear of prejudice. At a time when LGBTQ+ representation in football was almost non-existent, the founders of VMFC aimed to challenge the outdated notion that gay men didn’t, or couldn’t, play football.

As Sam, one of the current players and committee members, reflected, “The club was about creating a safe space where people could play the game they love and also find a community. It was as much about football as it was about making friends and feeling part of something.”

Today, nearly 30 years later, that vision has blossomed into a dynamic football family with six teams and a reputation that extends far beyond Manchester.

A club that welcomes everyone

What makes Village Manchester FC unique is its commitment to inclusivity. Originally a haven for gay men, the club has since evolved to embrace players from all walks of life — regardless of sexuality, gender identity, or football ability.

As Sam proudly shared: “We have a great mix of straight and gay players at the club. Obviously LGBTQ+ players are a priority, but we welcome everyone at the club.”

VMFC now runs multiple teams, catering to all skill levels. The First, Second, and Third Teams play in the Lancashire and Cheshire League — a competitive league involving both gay and straight teams, while the Fourth Team competes in the Gay Football Supporters’ Network (GFSN) League. The Fifth and Sixth Teams focus on friendlies, ensuring that even casual players have a chance to play and be part of the club.

Importantly, the club’s reach goes beyond the players on the pitch. From first-aid volunteers and photographers to web designers, “water boys”, and a passionate crowd of supporters (including many family members and friends), VMFC is a full-fledged community. “Some of our volunteers don’t even play football,” Sam laughed. “They just enjoy being part of the vibe — and they’re essential to what we do.”

Winning on and off the pitch

Although inclusivity and community are at the core of VMFC, don’t be mistaken — this is a club that knows how to win. With a record five-time victory in the prestigious GFSN Cup, multiple league titles, and even a European championship under their belt, VMFC proves that a welcoming club can also be a fiercely competitive one.

One of Sam’s fondest memories was being part of the team that won the GFSN Cup final held at Tranmere Rovers’ stadium. “It was such an incredible experience to play in a professional stadium and lift that trophy with my teammates,” he recalled.

And the success doesn’t stop there. Last year, VMFC triumphed in Vienna, bringing home the EuroGames Gold 2024, a tournament for LGBTQ+ teams from across the continent. “To win that competition and to know we’ve also won the IGLFA European Cup 2013 in Dublin,  is something that makes everyone at the club really proud,” said Sam.

More than football: a voice for change

VMFC believes that football can be a powerful force for social change. The club is deeply involved in campaigns that combat homophobia and promote diversity in sports. Each February, they take part in the nationwide Football v Homophobia campaign, dedicating matches across all teams to raise awareness and stand against discrimination.

During the annual Rainbow Laces campaign, organised by Stonewall, VMFC players proudly sport rainbow-coloured laces to promote inclusiveness. And in August, the club turns out in full force for Manchester Pride, participating in the famous parade through the city’s streets,  an event that Sam describes as “a massive celebration and an amazing day for the whole club.”

“Being visible, showing up, playing well, and winning, is one of the most powerful ways we can challenge stereotypes and change minds,” Sam explained. “When other teams see us competing as equals, it sends a message that LGBTQ+ people belong in football.”

Facing challenges, together

Of course, VMFC’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Despite progress, homophobia in football hasn’t disappeared. The club has faced abuse on the pitch, a painful reminder of why their mission remains so important. “The FA process for reporting abuse can be long and complicated,” Sam said, “and sometimes it feels like sanctions don’t go far enough.”

Running a volunteer-led club of this size is no easy task, either. With no paid staff, everything from organising matches and training to securing funding and managing logistics falls on the shoulders of dedicated members. “It’s a labor of love, for sure. But it’s also worth it because of what we’re building together,” Sam adds.

An exciting future ahead

Looking to the future, VMFC shows no signs of slowing down. The club is already planning 30th-anniversary celebrations for 2026, and in the more immediate future, they are set to host the National GFSN Summer Get-Together Tournament a five-a-side competition that will welcome around 48 teams from across the UK.

The club is also preparing for their annual European trip, heading to Lyon this year after a victorious trip to Vienna. These international adventures are as much about team bonding and cultural exchange as they are about football.

Closer to home, VMFC remains deeply connected to the Manchester community. They’ll participate in Manchester Pride, organise their traditional Kit Night on Canal Street to raise funds for George House Trust, and continue supporting charitable causes. Last year, Kit Night raised over £2,000 — and this year, they aim to do even better.

Everyone’s welcome at Village Manchester Football Club

For anyone inspired by VMFC’s story, getting involved is easy — whether as a player, volunteer, or supporter. “We’re always looking for more LGBTQ+ players — and straight allies too — to join our teams,” said Sam. “But even if you don’t play, there are loads of ways to help out. And if nothing else, come down and watch a game — we’d love to have you cheering us on.”

Matches are free to attend, with home games held at the Trinity Sports Centre and Manchester Academy High School on Saturdays. Fixtures and more information about joining or supporting the club are available on their website.

The beautiful game, for all

As VMFC approaches its 30th year, its legacy is clear: it’s a place where football meets friendship, where victories are celebrated as a team, and where everyone — regardless of background — can find their place on and off the pitch.

“Inclusivity isn’t just a word for us,” Sam said. “It’s who we are. And as long as there are barriers in football, we’ll keep breaking them down — one match at a time.”

So whether you’re a seasoned player, a casual football fan, or someone simply looking for a welcoming community, Village Manchester Football Club proves that football truly is for everyone, and they’ll be there, boots on, rainbow laces tied, leading the way.

You can find out more about Village Manchester Football Club on their website by clicking here