BREWERS players Ryan Leak and Terry Taylor were in attendance yesterday evening at one of Burton Albion Community Trust’s pan-disability football sessions.
It was the first appearance that the club’s players have been able to attend in public in over 18 months, after all community appearances were forced to be held via digital platforms throughout lockdown.
The session provides opportunities for boys and girls with a disability (aged 8-12) to play football on a regular basis alongside BACT’s qualified coaches at the Anglesey Community 3G (Queen Street Community Centre, Clarence Street).
The session aims to develop participants’ football skills, whilst enabling them the chance to engage with other youngsters who have a similar interest and passion in the sport.
Premier League Kicks uses the power of football to connect with young people in some of the most high-need areas of the UK.
The youth outreach programme began ten years ago, with the aim to create safer, stronger and more respectful communities through the development of young peoples’ potential, whilst providing access to facilities, coaching and mentoring.
Ryan Leak, Burton Albion’s PFA Disability Ambassador, said: “It was great to get out in the local community for the first time since joining the club.
“Disability sessions are something that I outlined at the start of the season that I’d like to get involved with and it was a pleasure to meet everyone who attended the session.
“Both the participants and coaches made me, and Terry feel really welcome and we look forward to seeing them all again in the near future.”
Charles Sketchley, BACT Disability Coordinator, said it was inspiring for the youngsters at the session to get the chance to train with players from the Burton Albion first team.
“The players were fantastic and we can’t thank them enough for coming”, said Sketchley.
“We encourage any youngsters with a disability to come down and join in with one of our sessions. It’s great for confidence and engaging with new skills, and nights like tonight are truly inspiring for all that attend.”
For more information on BACT’s fun and inclusive pan-disability sessions, please contact Charles Sketchley via email on charles.sketchley@burtonalbionct.org or call 01283 246207.