I've worn rainbow laces, without issue, for years whilst officiating. I'm LGBT myself but it's mostly there for players and coaches who maybe aren't out to feel more comfortable raising concerns with me.
In fact I've had several moments where players or coaches have enquired about them and then thanked me/reacted positively when I confirm they're for LGBT support and not just because I got bored of all black!
But then this weekend I had a player claim I shouldn't be wearing them because it shows I'm not "neutral" and might be biased. I just said he was the first one to complain for years and that the FA endorsed the campaign but now I'm questioning if I risk creating more hassle for myself wearing them.
In fact I've had several moments where players or coaches have enquired about them and then thanked me/reacted positively when I confirm they're for LGBT support and not just because I got bored of all black!
But then this weekend I had a player claim I shouldn't be wearing them because it shows I'm not "neutral" and might be biased. I just said he was the first one to complain for years and that the FA endorsed the campaign but now I'm questioning if I risk creating more hassle for myself wearing them.