Ipswich players join disability football sessions.
Two Ipswich Town players took part in disabilities football sessions at their Portman Road stadium, saying it was “nice” to put smiles on the faces of participants.
George Hirst and Kasey McAteer had a kick around with players from the Ipswich Town Foundation, which provides six hours of disability support per week. According to the group, involvement has increased from fewer than ten players in 2021 to approximately 140 presently.
McAteer stated: “It’s nice to see their faces light up, and if I can take 30 minutes out of my day to make them happy, it’s a well-earned day.” I’m glad to be down here, and I look forward to watching them play some games.”
Tom Williams/BBCThe foundation provides sport activities and training to individuals of all ages throughout Suffolk.
Ipswich striker Hirst stated that he had visited the group “quite a few times” and enjoyed spotting members in the crowd on match days. He went on to say, “For folks in this scenario, things aren’t always perfect. People face a variety of hardships.
“If I can come down here and put a smile on on their face for 10, 15, 20 minutes… if they can go home and have something to talk about then then that fills me with joy.”
Tom Williams/BBCLeanne Smith, community engagement manager, described the seminars as “organised chaos” in which guests “get stuck in”.
She stated that it has been “immense” to see attendance figures increase since she began in the job in 2021. “Lots of them can’t access grassroot mainstream football for whatever reason,” she added of those who participate. “Everyone needs a safe place to play and have access to football.
“They’ve formed friendships out of it. Their caretakers and parents have also formed friendships as a result of it; it’s not only about football; it’s about creating a community, and I believe we’ve succeeded.”
Tom Williams/BBCHarrison Mayhew-Kemp has been volunteering with the organisation for numerous years.
He stated, “It’s just incredible to think that boys and girls can play in front of their heroes rather than the other way around.” “Without the foundation, I wouldn’t be who I am.
“It basically gives me a life, and it allows me to not only chat with amazing individuals, but also establish new friends and coworkers. “It’s really brought me out of my shell.”
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