Employment tribunal argues black footballer’s dismissal was unfair racial victimisation

Mark McCammon claimed he and other black players at League Two Gillingham Football Club were treated differently from white players on the team.

At an employment tribunal hearing this week, Mark McCammon, once of League two Gillingham Football Club, had his claim for wrongful dismissal upheld after the tribunal heard details of alleged racial discrimination against Mr McCammon and other black footballers at the club.

Mr McCammon was dismissed by the club in 2011 for alleged aggressive conduct towards the manager and racism. However, Mr McCammon brought an employment tribunal claim against the club arguing he and his black teammates were discriminated against.

Mr McCammon argued the club had tried to “frustrate him out” by uncharacteristically refusing to fund private medical treatment to get him back to full fitness following an injury. Instead the club offered him treatment on the NHS.

He also alleged the club had ordered him and his black team mates to attend a training session in terrible snow and treacherous driving conditions or face having their wages docked whilst some white players were told they were not required. This resulted in an argument between Mr McCammon and the club’s manager, Mr Andy Hessenthaler. Following this the player was forced to attend a disciplinary hearing which ultimately led to his dismissal.

The tribunal ruled in favour of the player, Gillingham FC are currently deciding whether to appeal the decision.