Luke Brown has been a member of Charlton Athletic Ability Counts Football Club (CAACFC) for over 20 years. CAACFC is Charlton’s pan-disability team which was founded in 2005.
Luke decided to try something new this season and joined Charlton’s LGBTQ+ friendly team, CACT Invicta.
After playing with CAACFC for many years, Luke refers to Charlton Athletic as his “second family”.
When asked how he first got involved with CAACFC, Luke said:
“It started when I was Marjorie McClure School, my teacher got me into Charlton Athletic Ability Counts. I’ve been with them for many years.
“This year I thought I would try something new, so I signed up to Charlton Invicta this season. We’re doing absolutely brilliantly, obviously training twice a week.”
Prior to joining Invicta, Luke played for [fellow London Unity League side] Soho FC and found the support of an LGBTQ+ inclusive team very welcoming:
“When I felt more comfortable with them, I came out as a bi man. Basically, I said to them, I like women and I like men. I told some of the Charlton players and they were okay with it.
“I’m still looking forward to Pride weekend with them where we walk down with rainbows in London.”
Luke has always had a love of football, describing it as the thing that keeps him going:
“Every single training session and matchday is something new and I just want to keep going as it is sort of helping me get over my depression a bit. It’s something to look forward to.”
Through the Fans for Diversity fund, Luke, who has difficulties with his sight, was gifted specialist glasses to help him continue playing the sport he loves.
When he was given the glasses, Luke said:
“I have never been so happy in my life; I feel like I could cry. Thank you everyone at Charlton Invicta FC.
“Training sessions have been brilliant and fun – and I’ve been scoring some great goals.”
To help support the vital work of CACT, please consider setting up a regular donation.