Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT) recently visited a Charlton Invicta training session in recognition of this year’s International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT), which takes place on Saturday, May 17th.
This year’s IDAHOBIT is themed around the power of communities, with Invicta continuing to be a shining example of how football can unite people and provide a welcoming, supportive community for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
Invicta FC are the LGBTQ+ friendly team affiliated with Charlton and CACT, and in 2017 became the first LGBTQ+ friendly team to be affiliated with a professional club's community trust.
Dan, who plays for Invicta, said: “The key thing about Charlton Invicta is that anyone can come here, join the team, and have a good time. We come together as a community, and we want more people to feel they can join, meet new people and make friends. I was scared when I first joined Invicta because I didn’t know anyone, but it’s such a welcoming space. If you’re unsure or nervous, just reach out – no one is ever turned away.”
Gary Ginnaw, Charlton Invicta club chair, said: “We are proud to be a safe space for all LGBTQ+ people - not just for the football, but generally as well. This IDAHOBIT is all about the power of communities. Our community is your community. Football is a game for all. It's our game and it's your game. Everyone is welcome here. If you're interested in getting into or back into football - please reach out to us.”
This year’s IDAHOBIT also comes at the end of a hugely successful season on the pitch for Charlton Invicta. Competing in the London Unity League, the Invicta Addicks team have secured a first-place finish in Division 2, earning promotion and joining the Invicta Valiants side in Division 1 for the 2025-26 season. The Valiants are currently sitting second in Division 1 and could still clinch a first-place finish for the first time since 2018, if results go their way on the final day of the season.
To learn more about Charlton Invicta and how you can get involved, click here.
To find out more about IDAHOBIT 2025, click here.