#SRtRCSpotlight: QPR FC’s First 11 Black Players Exhibition Launch
Recently, Show Racism the Red Card collaborated with Queens Park Rangers (QPR) in the Community Trust and Premier League Inspires at MATRADE Loftus Road, and hosted an educational event for pupils from 2 local secondary schools. The event featured the launch of QPR’s First 11 Black Players Exhibition, sponsored by the PFA, the FA & the EFL.
Students received an anti-racism workshop and explored the ground on a stadium tour. They discussed how to recognise and report racism within their communities while learning about the history of the club and former players.
The event included SRtRC’s First XI exhibition, celebrating the first 11 male Black players to represent QPR FC. The exhibit was stationed throughout the stadium as part of the tour. This project has been a part of SRtRC’s 30th Anniversary and has been introduced to various clubs across England.
Derek Richardson & Bob Hazell, featured in QPR’s First 11 Black Players
Educator and Club Event Lead, Jack Cunningham said:
“This was an incredible event with an outstanding panel. It was wonderful working alongside QPR Trust and to participate in exceptional community work.”
After lunch, pupils met and questioned First XI and former Super Hoop’s players Bob Hazell, Paul Parker and Derek Richardson who made up some of our special panel. They were joined by former QPR player Trevor Sinclair as well as the director of equality, diversity and inclusion at the Professional Footballer’s Association, Simone Pound and Pablo Blackwood, race and ethnicity lead at QPR in the Community Trust.
Pablo Blackwood commented:
“It was an honour and privilege to join some of our trailblazing players and the PFA for the Q&A session. As a panel we were asked some great questions that included many of the themes covered throughout the day.”
Eric Salvo, QPR Trust secondary school manager said,
“Moments like these are invaluable, allowing the younger generation to hear powerful stories that have shaped both the club and the wider community. I’m already looking forward to the next event and the inspiration it will bring.”
Show Racism the Red Card would like to thank QPR in the Community, PL Inspires and our panellists for their continued work and support for these events.
