Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question? We might have the answer
No website is complete without an FAQ page, so here's ours!
Below are a handful of questions and answers about Proud Baggies, PBFC, and other aspects of our organisation and what we do. Please reach us at info@proudbaggies.com if you cannot find an answer to your question and we'll be happy to help you out.
Follow us on social media
Stay up-to-date with all the latest Proud Baggies news, events, and behind-the-scenes peeks, and don't be afraid to chat with us and see what we're all about as a fan organisation supporting the LGBT+ community.
Who are Proud Baggies?
We are West Bromwich Albion FC’s LGBTQ+ supporter group. We want to bring the football and LGBT+ communities together to celebrate diversity, and to increase LGBTQ+ visibility at West Bromwich Albion FC, making our club a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
Is there a cost to join?
Nope. We are an entirely free organisation.
The only spending you will do is of your own accord on a matchday, a social night or, as a PBFC member, to acquire appropriate kit and footwear for playing.
How often do the proud baggies meet up?
Proud Baggies members meet every time there is a home or away game for the Albion, as well as at our Monday training sessions for Proud Baggies FC, our Friday fun kickabout sessions, and any other social events that members organise for the group.
We will have occasional larger get-togethers for Christmas, dedicated social nights dotted throughout the year, and for major international matches.
Do Proud Baggies sell merch?
We will shortly be launching our own Proud Baggies range of merchandise, but in the meantime West Bromwich Albion - in their support of the LGBTQ+ community - does offer WBA Pride clothing and accessories, which can be bought from the club shop or online store.
From time to time we also have opportunities to acquire rainbow-themed or Pride merch for events or campaigns, details for which are communicated to members as and when.
If I do join PBFC, is there a minimum attendance requirement?
No. Obviously we want all players there as often as possible but we understand that life is busy and people have jobs, families, and other responsibilities or interests. We don't demand that people attend, but we hope our training environment is such that you want to come regularly.
Players wanting to play in the PBFC team on matchdays are required to have at least attended semi-regularly to be considered for inclusion by the coaching staff however.
What data do you collect?
Personal information is collected for registration purposes, and your own computer or smartphone will collect cookies - if permitted to do so - to speed up your usage of our website in future. For more information, see our Privacy Policy page.
Can anyone join?
Yes! Proud Baggies is a safe, inclusive space for all LGBTQ+ people - whether you support West Brom or not. Allies are also welcome.
Of course, we'd rather you had good taste in a football team but we're a tolerant group here.
Are there any organisation rules?
We don't have a strict set of rules, bar football guidelines for safety and inclusivity, but we do expect all members to be respectful, considerate, and tolerant of their fellow Proud Baggies.
Should anyone fail to meet these standards then they will be warned. We will revoke membership and prohibit a person (or people) from future Proud Baggies events and activities if their behaviour fails to meet acceptable standards.
Do Proud Baggies have their own offices or HQ?
No. We are ran by our own voluntary management and members committee, in collaboration with The Albion Foundation and West Bromwich Albion FC.
Can I try Friday Football before joining PBFC?
Yes. Many of our players started out at Friday football and came to Monday training sessions as a result. Several PBFC players attend both sessions each week.
Members do not have to attend Monday training if they'd rather just play at the Friday fun session.
Please note: Members must be registered with Proud Baggies and, consequently, The Albion Foundation before they are permitted to take part in sessions.
Who do I speak to should I have an inquiry, complaint or concern?
There are many issues, questions and concerns that may arise as a member of the Proud Baggies. We want to assure our members that they will be heard and supported appropriately, and that appropriate safeguarding measures are in place.
For Proud Baggies issues, members can register inquiries or complaints via ANY of the group officers.
For footballing issues, players should speak to Tom Hogan, who is our secretary for all football matters.
For media inquiries, please email FAO either Liam Sheasby or Dan Twist - our Media Officers.
