LONDON -  The Football Association's (FA) commitment to opposing homophobia at all levels of football has led to the backing of a new play. The production opens at Southwark Playhouse this October in association with York Theatre Royal.

And in response to increasing awareness of homophobic attitudes within the game, a comprehensive education programme will also be delivered through the Ethics and Sports Equity Department of The Football Association.

The play, GAFFER!, is the story of George, manager of Northbridge Town, a club struggling in the lower half of the league. As a vital cup-tie looms, George gambles on his new teenage signing making a decisive impact. As the pressure builds and certainties of George's world crumble around him, a kiss with a 17-year-old on a park bench throws everything wide open.

The FA is committed to ensuring football is open to all sections of society without fear of abuse of any kind. The FA’s lead on combating homophobia has been applauded by other European football associations as well as sporting and campaigning groups.

With the support of The FA, Southwark Playhouse are offering free tickets to grassroots football organisations and free workshops exploring themes raised by the play. The workshops will take place on 21st and 28th October from 2pm-4pm. These two hour sessions will be facilitated by experienced FA endorsed practitioners.

"We believe football must be open to everyone in our society," say Lucy Faulkner, the Ethics and Sports Equity Manager at the FA. "We believe football truly is the national game and abuse of any kind is unacceptable. We’ve made clear our opposition to homophobia in football and believe attitudes are changing. This play will help raise further awareness of the issues."

The FA’s comprehensive Ethics and Sports Equity strategy explains the commitment to ensuring football in England is diverse and inclusive. The FA has taken a clear lead on opposing racism and other forms of abuse, as well increasing representation from under-represented groups.