Why Dulwich Hamlet isn’t just another football team.
A deep-delve into how Dulwich Hamlet is so much more than just your average football.
Amongst the hustle and bustle of what is London's football scene, lies a team nestled within the heart of South East London, that transcends the conventional norms of the sport. Dulwich Hamlet FC isn't just another football club; it's a vibrant symbol of community, inclusivity, and fierce resilience. Beyond the pitch, this semi-professional team stands tall as a beacon of hope, bringing people together and championing causes that extend far beyond the beautiful game.
Founded in 1893, Dulwich Hamlet FC has a rich history steeped in the spirit of South London. What sets them apart from the glitz and glamour of the higher leagues is their deep-rooted, arm-in-arm connection with the local community. Unlike the corporate giants of modern football, Dulwich Hamlet is firmly grounded in its surroundings, drawing an ever-growing support from not only the diverse community who call Dulwich home, but what has in the last couple of years spread to wider audiences. One of the club's community leaders believes that “this is because of the club's ethos and approach to football. Instead of making everything about money, which unfortunately is taking over football, Dulwich focuses on providing and allowing access for those who make up the game of football – regular people - and make them feel like they are a part of the team that they are proud of. Everywhere you go, you see the Dulwich colours whether it’s in the form of the scarfs or the kit.”
The club's ethos revolves around inclusivity, welcoming fans from all walks of life, regardless of background, ethnicity, or social status. This is highlighted throughout the club, but especially when it comes down to buying a ticket. With prices in the Premier League on the regular increase, Dulwich Hamlet has maintained an extremely reasonable price at £12 for adults and free for under 13’s accompanied by an adult. But what really stands out is the very inclusive commission price of £5, that not only includes over 65’s but also students, unemployed and DLA recipients, etc. So in a time where many don’t have much, if any, disposable income, and with football tickets being extortionate, Dulwich gives people a chance to experience the thrill of a football game, without having to break the bank.
On game day at Champion Hill, there is the most vibrant smorgasbord of people, ranging from families, to couples, to the young and old, groups of women, men, girls and boys, and – maybe most surprising of all – dogs. Dulwich Hamlet is undoubtedly up there with having the most diverse fanbase in football. Still with all of this, one of maybe the most noticeable aspects of all, is that there is absolutely no signs of ‘hooligan’ behaviour at all. No degrading chants from the rabble (Dulwich fans), no signs of violence even with the opposing fans mingled in with the home fans, or with the availability of beer on tap around the stadium. The environment is that of a new wave of football fans, one where everyone feels at home, really emphasising the phrase that is printed in massive letters across the club’s main stand: “In our house we are all equal”.
Gone from the days of overpriced pies and watery pints, Dulwich welcomes only the best local businesses to provide the refreshments. Such as Brixton Brewery, who supply beer from just a stone’s throw away from the stadium, and a whole list of bars and restaurants such as Franco Manco, Drop Wine and The Real Greek amongst others offering deals on match days for fans. Elsewhere, local pub The Bishop regularly sponsors match games.
But Dulwich Hamlet stretches far beyond the confines of the stadium. The club takes pride in its role as a community hub, actively engaging with local residents, businesses, and organisations such as the Dulwich Hamlet Supporters Trust (DHST), an independent, democratic, not for profit organisation whose “main focus is to support and enable a successful and secure future for Dulwich Hamlet Football Club (DHFC) and to give a voice to the club’s supporters”. The Trust also “carries out regular charity and community work, raising funds and gathering donations for a wide range of activities and initiatives including food banks, WrapUp London, LGBTQ+ organisations and the Club’s charity partners”. From grassroots initiatives to charitable endeavours, DHFC is at the forefront of the Dulwich community, using the power of football to bring a meaningful change and create lasting connections.
Yas, 23, who isn’t normally a football fan, says: “About four months ago, I joined a Facebook page made up of females in the local area who attend games together and are always gaining more and more followers each week.”
‘Inclusivity’ is a word that comes up a whole lot when it comes to DHFC and one shining example of the club's commitment is its support for LGBTQ+ rights. In a sport where diversity and acceptance have often been overlooked, Dulwich Hamlet has been a trailblazer, openly advocating for LGBTQ+ promotion both on and off the pitch. The team's rainbow-coloured kit, worn in support of Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign and the words “In our house we are all equal” written on the main stand in big rainbow letters, serve as a powerful symbol of solidarity, sending a clear message that everyone is welcome here.
Aside from its social impact, Dulwich Hamlet FC has, however, faced its fair share of challenges over the years, from financial struggles to threats of eviction from its home at Champion Hill. Yet, through it all, the club has demonstrated a remarkable resilience, rallying support from fans and the local community to overcome adversity and emerge stronger than ever.
The #SaveDHFC campaign, launched in response to the club's financial woes, is a testament to the unwavering dedication of Dulwich Hamlet supporters. Through fundraising efforts, protest marches, and social media activism, fans have banded together to ensure the survival of their beloved club. Not only was the campaign successful in securing Dulwich Hamlet's future but it also showcased the extraordinary and essential bond between the team, its supporters, and the community.
“Dulwich Hamlet FC embodies the true spirit of grassroots football,” says newcomer Lee, 57, and that it certainly does, a club defined by passion, resilience, and a deep-rooted connection to the community, in an age where the beautiful game is often overshadowed by commercial interests. Dulwich Hamlet serves as a refreshing reminder of what football should be: a force for good that brings people together, fosters inclusivity, and inspires hope and one thing that is abundantly clear: Dulwich Hamlet FC isn't just another football team.