Wolves win in Punjabi celebration at St. George's Park

Wednesday 21 Oct 2015
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St. George’s Park hosted a special game on Saturday 17 October between the country’s two foremost Punjabi-based supporters groups, Punjabi Wolves of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Punjabi Rams of Derby County thanks to the Fans For Diversity (FFD) fund.

Ahead of the Championship clash between Derby and Wolves on Sunday 18 October, both sets of fans groups organised the match between supporters at the training base of the England national team.

The match was also supported by Kick It Out and The Football Supporters’ Federation (FSF) through the FFD campaign, as well as The Football Association (FA).

On the day Wolves ran out comfortable winners, but it was the symbolism of the day that will be remembered by the vast majority involved.

It also helped mark the one year anniversary of the unveiling of the Arthur Wharton statue at the national football centre, who was England’s first black professional footballer.

With the event being held during Black History Month, both teams visited the statue of Wharton prior to the match taking place.

Anwar Uddin, lead on the Fans For Diversity Campaign, was delighted at the success of the match: “It’s been a pleasure working closely with both supporters groups and I am delighted we could use our ‘Fans for Diversity’ fund to support a fantastic initiative.

“Both supporters groups bring an infusion of culture, and community to their stadiums each week and we can encourage all football supporters to do the same.

“The game was a symbol of the great work being done by Kick It Out, The FSF and The FA.”

Pete Bassi of Punjabi Wolves said: “The game was a great way to continue a friendship with the Rams by playing them in the finest sporting establishment in England. St. George’s Park was the perfect setting.”

Martin Glenn, The FA’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “The fact we have two supporters groups who are helping to break down barriers in this way is something I’m delighted we’re endorsing.”

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