The Essendon Football Club has officially launched its latest supporter group, Purple Bombers.
The group is committed to removing homophobia from football and encouraging acceptance within the wider football community.
“Everyone deserves to be treated equally regardless of race, religion, beliefs, sexuality,” Essendon midfielder Brendon Goddard said.
More than 150 people, including Goddard and Essendon Chief Executive Officer Xavier Campbell, were there for the launch on Monday night.
Goddard says he had no hesitation lending his name to the message.
“Hopefully one day we can all be treated equally and they’re not looked at as being different from anyone else.
“It’s important the support the club is giving them in their push to be heard.”
The Purple Bombers are hoping to create a pride round and Goddard says a match up against his former club St Kilda would help promote the cause.
“They’re a great supporter and advocate of the gay community. It’d be ironic but it’d be really good.”
For more information go to www.purplebombers.com
