Welcome to Support Utd, our LGBTQIA+ Football Club which launches on Wednesday 21st January 2026. SupportUtd is an inclusive, friendly space where everyone is welcome, no matter your gender identity, sexuality, or experience level. Whether you’ve played for years or have never set foot on a pitch, this is your chance to get active, meet new people, and have fun in a safe, judgment free environment.  

Our sessions are open to everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community (and supportive allies too). We focus on building confidence, developing football skills at your own pace, and enjoying the social side of being part of a team. You don’t need to be super sporty or have played before — we’ve got people of all abilities and fitness levels. Each session is about connection, community, and movement — not competition. 

You’ll be coached by former New Zealand International player Ria Percival, taking part in skills practice, fun fitness and small sided matches.

  • What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, football boots, and a water bottle 

  • Cost: £6 per session, or £22 per month for a monthly membership…but your first session is free!

  • How to sign up: just complete the short form at the bottom of this page to sign up for your first session.

Meet coach Ria

SupportUtd training sessions will be led by former New Zealand International and experienced coach Ria Percival.

Through her 18 year football career, Ria played for West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur in the Women's Super League and had a pivotal role in helping Crystal Palace secure promotion from the Women's Championship. She has also represented New Zealand in five FIFA Women's World Cups and four Olympic Games, culminating in captaining the Football Ferns at the 2023 World Cup, which marked the conclusion of her international career.

Ria is now dedicated to inspiring the next generation of footballers. Ria seeks to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and demonstrate that football is a game for everyone, regardless of background or ability. Ria says:

“Football is for everyone. No matter your background, ability, or experience, everyone is welcome. You’re not expected to know everything, and what matters most is having fun, learning, and building a strong, supportive team and community. This is a safe, inclusive, and empowering team, where LGBTQIA+ players and allies feel welcome, supported and valued.  

Join SupportUtd!

If you’d like to join us for a free trial session, fill in your details and we’ll be in touch with all the information you need and an easy payment link. Your first session will be absolutely free, though!

 FAQs

  • Yes! Once you’ve registered using the form above, your first session will be free, then you can use an easy payment link for future sessions if you want to continue. We don’t want cost to be a barrier to anyone so if you’re struggling, just contact us and we’ll do our best to help.

  • Absolutely! All abilities are welcome. from total beginners to seasoned football players, and coach Ria will make sure you can progress at the right pace. 

  • Yes, only football boots with moulded or metal studs are allowed on the 4G pitches we play on. You can buy a pair for very good value online, or speak to us and we’ll help you to find some.

  • All we ask is that you’re over 18 year old; LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies are all welcome to join.

  • Bring your football boots and, if you have them, you can brig shin pads too (but they’re not essential). A water bottle will also be handy for breaks, but other than that we’ll provide everything you need.