The Falcons is an amazing queer soccer club in Philly that offers many activities such as pickup, leagues and tournaments, organized teams that play in outside leagues and tournaments, and social events (all run completely by volunteers). It is a inclusive community that welcomes all. There are long time members and people looking to meet new friends, all genders, all races, all skill levels.
Dignity. Respect. Safety. Acceptance. Four words, four states of being that simply did not exist for most LGBTQ athletes - at any level of sport - for most of the 20th century. Many of us know the names of the incredibly brave pioneers: King, Kopay, Burke, Fashanu, Navratilova, Bean... and more recently, Rogers, Rapinoe, Collins, Prokop, and Nassib. The Philadelphia Falcons soccer club became an official organization in 1989 with the goal of creating a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ players and their allies to enjoy the "beautiful game" without fear of discrimination or harassment. Now, 32 years later, the Falcons are over 500 current and former members strong, with players of all orientations, identities, ethnicities, backgrounds, and levels exemplifying the true global scope of the game at a time when unity among various communities has been severely tested by cultural and political mistrust.
One of the most important and meaningful moments I experienced as a member of this "family" took place about 9 years ago - at one of our annual banquet/awards events - while standing on line waiting for a restroom to open up. A twenty-something man, a new player with the club, introduced himself and expressed his sincere thanks to me for having been involved in the founding of the club..... "I feel like the Falcons allowed me to be able to breathe again. Moving to Philly and starting college as a gay man who wanted to play at the varsity level, I knew that environment was never going to accept me for who I really was, and so finding this team was like being given new life. I really can't thank you enough for what you created." That sense of hope, of safety, of pride in in who we are - no matter who or what we are - is exactly what this club stands for, and why it deserves to be supported.
The Falcons are an awesome Philly soccer organization. They do great work to encourage inclusivity in the Philly soccer scene, get more players into the game, and field lots of teams every season in leagues around the Philly region!
I joined the falcons years ago after hearing about their soccer league from their president who played kickball with me. I was nervous to join a new league without knowing anyone. However, I was welcome with open arms and never looked back. After playing multiple seasons of soccer over the last 5 years, helping with fundraisers, and being a part of such a wonderful community, I’ve never known a better nonprofit to help the LGBTQ communities in the philly area. Every single person puts their heart and soul into this organization and so proud to be a part of it!!
The Philadelphia Falcons Soccer Club is a great club with amazing people. it helped me get back my joy playing soccer after taking a long time off from playing. Now some of my closest friends are Falcons. The club is welcoming to people of all sexualities, genders, races, nationalities, abilities and circumstances. It's inexpensive too! Come to a pickup to see if it's a good fit for you.
I joined the falcons in 1991 when they were in their third year
We grew and grew over the years to give more back to the community.
In 1991 it was the only place they I actually had gay friends. 39 years later those friends are still apart of my life
By giving me a safe space I was able to grow and become more comfortable walking in my shoes
Today the falcons have grown sustainably and have given so much back to the community. I am proud to have have been a part of this group but even prouder to see the new heights they have reached.
I moved to Philadelphia over 10 years ago, new to the city, recently out, and had a tough time making close friends and meeting new people. An acquaintance recommended the Falcons to me. It's one of the best things that's ever happened in my life. Amazing people, amazing soccer. The Falcons are incredibly generous. This is truly a community that is open to everyone regardless of sexual orientation, gender expression, class, race, everything as long as you come with a loving spirit.
I cannot say enough about this club and how proud I am to be a member.
Thanks Falcons!
