Today marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the day aims to promote a further understanding of disabilities in order to mobilise support for greater equality. Tranmere Rovers hold weekly Football sessions at Prenton Park where those with disabilities are welcome to join in, in a supportive session held by Tranmere Rovers in the Community.
We spoke to two regular attendees of the weekly sessions, Kory who has Autism and ADHD and Aidan who has Cerebral Palsy to see what they do and how they have been positively impacted.
“In the sessions we play Football, we’ve all got disabilities and it helps with our social skills.”
The sessions held at Prenton Park aid in the development of skills, promote well-being and allows the participants to play football on a level playing field, this is important in supporting those with disabilities.
“It’s good because you’re interacting with other people where you know how they feel, and they know how you feel, and you don’t always get that when you’re playing Football with your mates who are able.”
Kory who has been with us for several years, plays for our adult disability team but coaches our junior team, being involved with Tranmere Rovers in the Community has allowed him to gain the confidence needed to not only grow in his football ability but also coaching.
“I feel included, I’ve made friends and I’ve improved my Football skills and now I’m a qualified Coach so that’s how it’s helped me.”
“I feel like Tranmere and the sessions give you the opportunity to do what you enjoy, you work hard, improve your fitness and get to play Footy – that’s all you could ask for really.”
“If you’re nervous that’s fine, we’ve got plenty of people to encourage you.”
“I think as well just because you’re not like your mates or you’ve got a slight difference doesn’t mean that you can’t do as well as them and doesn’t mean you can’t be included, because you can be.”
“Here, it’s fair for everybody and everyone is equal – we have a good game of Footy and have a laugh.”
If you find that you or someone you know would like to join, Tranmere Rovers in the Community’s Junior and Adult disability sessions takes place on Monday and Tuesdays at Tranmere Rovers recreation centre.
For further information, please get in contact by email: community@tranmererovers.co.uk