I saw with true astonishment and sadness yesterday that some fans on this forum were defending racist and homophobic chants by new young Welling "fans" at the Wingate game.
I've supported Welling United since 1977 and was an avid attendee until I moved out of London about ten years ago. I haven't attended a game for a few years due to health problems and having read what I did yesterday, I have no wish to ever attend another one if attitudes at the club have changed in this way.
Welling United always took pride in being a family club and had zero tolerance for racist and homophobic chants and abuse. The fans policed themselves - if anyone was unwise enough to shout such things, one of the regulars would immediately have a quiet word in their ear and tell them not to do it again. Home or away supporter. It nearly always did the trick and made Welling United one of the most welcoming clubs in SE London.
Racism and homophobia are NEVER acceptable in ANY CONTEXT. Anyone excusing it or making light of it is as guilty of racism and/or homophobia as the perpetrator. They are neanderthal emotions and betray a complete lack of intellect. Welling United and society as a whole does not need people like this and they should be hounded away from the club.
I was at the game yesterday and didn't hear any racist or homophobic abuse. I stood the behind the goal and did hear some juvenile stuff about Starmer and Reform but nothing offensive. Not saying it didn't happen, I just didn't hear it. There's no way attitudes at the club have changed as not a single, regular supporter I know would have that attitude. If anyone does, then as you say, zero tolerance.
