The word ‘race’ originally meant ‘family’. Later, it was used more loosely for national groups such as a French or German race. In the nineteenth century, with the various theories of mans origin, scientists took it over to describe the 'races of Man': groups defined by their physical differences from one another, such as skin colour, hair type, body shape and so on. These scientists were European and as they attempted to categorise the ‘races’ they naturally categorised themselves as superior and regarded ‘race’ as a determinant of character. Unfortunately this influence of racial theories on politics, popular fiction and journalism lasted well into the twentieth century. South Africa’s apartheid policies, the USA southern states as well as national quotas for immigration all had their roots in these theories. The placing of ‘races’ in order from superior to inferior, with a system for identifying characteristics, served to perpetuate the standing of certain groups worldwide. These scientists may have been respected thinkers but they fed prejudice and racial discrimination.- which arises when a person or group is treated leas favourably than another in similar circumstances 'on racial grounds'. (Race Relations Act 1976). The Race Relations Act (UK) makes it unlawful to discriminate against anyone on grounds of race, colour, nationality, or ethnic or national origin.

The term used to describe groups from different ethnic backgrounds is Ethnic Minorities. Ethnic minorities make up less than 15% of the total population in England, (but percentage will differ depending on the Country). Many of these minority groups participate in a full and rich football community, however some do not and we must start to question why they do not participate and what can we do to make football accessible for all who want to play. Racism can be best described as negative discrimination against an individual because of their colour, racial origin, ethnicity, ancestry, or place of birth.