Players filtering through for a meeting on a Monday is not an unusual sight.  But this 'team talk' was different.

Instead of listening to coaches discuss tactics, the players were engaged, entertained and informed by members of the Purple Bombers – a coterie group aiming to assist the Bombers in creating a safe environment for LGBTIQ supporters and players, by encouraging and promoting diversity, and acceptance within the wider football community.

The players heard stories of how LGBTIQ supporters enjoy the game in the grandstand, but also remain nervous about when the next homophobic slur might be shouted from the crowd.

The Purple Bombers members spoke about the pride they felt in the knowledge that the Club they love ‘had their backs’.

Essendon will train this week in special ‘pride’ guernseys in conjunction with the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia on Wednesday.

To purchase a pride Guernsey click here

The Bombers are striving to be the most inclusive Club in the country and their partnership with the Purple Bombers forms a key part of that mission.

The coterie group’s aim is to assist the Bombers in creating a safe environment for LGBTIQ supporters and players, by encouraging and promoting diversity, and acceptance within the wider football community.

Members of the Purple Bombers held a diversity and inclusion session with the entire Club on Monday and will form a guard of honour as the side runs out on Sunday.

“It was great to speak to the players and tell them what the Purple Bombers is about – and that’s making the AFL a safe place for everyone,” Purple Bombers' President, Jason Tuazon-McCheyne said.

“The players have been fantastic.

“We’ve existed for about four years and Essendon want to be the most inclusive Club in the AFL, so it has been amazing to see the entire playing group, staff, coaching staff and leadership of the Club embrace inclusion.

“I love the Essendon Football Club and the Essendon Football Club loves us back.”