James Laley
Founder & Chair
I founded Rainbow Blades because anyone who is a Blade, no matter your Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity or any other protected characteristic, should always be able to support Sheffield United, enjoy football as a fan, player or coach without any fear of discrimination. I want all fans to be welcome at Bramall Lane. I want Sheffield United to be a fully inclusive football club and shout about it.
Adam Murray
Sponsorship
I want to be on this committee to ensure that we take football kicking and screaming into the 21st century on this issue. Inclusivity of all is key, and how we achieve that is through talking and accepting difference. This is a real chance to show LGBT+ youngsters that they have a place in football. It’s also a chance to fight against the advice of agents and others, whom are encouraging players to stay ‘in the closet’ when players coming out would change this conversation altogether.
Matty Cassell
Football Events
​Football is for everyone, and that's the hill I will die on. That's why joining Rainbow Blades was a no brainer. I've seen first hand how the beautiful game can bring everyone together and break down barriers. I want to make sure Blades and beyond enjoy football without fear of discrimination.
Faye Gregory
Events & Wellbeing
I've been a Sheffield United supporter for my whole life and a Rainbow Blade for the last few years. Outside of football, I play Roller Derby for Hallam Hellcats and understand the importance of having a safe place to express yourself through sport.
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I'm looking forward to helping continue the work that Rainbow Blades have done in promoting a safe and inclusive environment for all football fans.
William Lee
Marketing & Fundraising
I first heard about Rainbow Blades through its allyship campaign during COVID and thought I’d love to get involved. As an ally, I have always felt welcomed and valued and I’m truly honoured to join the cause. Rainbow Blades plays such a vital role in the fight for inclusion, diversity and acceptance across Sheffield and beyond.
James Beckingham
Inclusive Football Session Lead
James leads our weekly Inclusive Football Sessions and has being pivotal to it's growth.
The sessions now have over 30 participants and James has also been the lead design for our Rainbow Blades football kit.
James has ensured these sessions are always LGBTQ+ inclusive and welcomng for all.
