Tom Elliott reacts to pride shirt controversy for half-time kids match at the A-League

Tom Elliott says it is completely inappropriate for children as young as six to be “forced” to wear LGBTQI+ pride shirts to play in a half-time match later this month.

The Herald Sun reports the parents of six and seven-year-olds have been told their children will not be able to take to the pitch during Melbourne Victory’s small-sided football match at the Pride Cup on February 26 if they do not agree to their kids wearing the pride shirts.

“Gay pride is all well and good, but these are six and seven-year-old children,” Tom Elliott said in response to the news.

Press PLAY below to hear his reaction

Melbourne Victory has since denied they were “forcing” anybody to wear the shirts and any family uncomfortable could participate on an alternative day.

James Lolicato, Pride Cup Australia’s CEO, defended the concept on 3AW Drive.

Press PLAY below to hear his exchange with Tom Elliott

(Photo by Sarah Reed/Getty Images)