The Junior section of the Komatsu Cumberland Ability Counts League launched the 2024 season on a fantastic sunny day in Penrith just before Easter. Teams from around the County enjoyed the hospitality of host venue Penrith AFC, and for many it was the first opportunity to play on the new surface laid this season.

Teams from Bee Unique, Carlisle Reivers, Penrith AFC, Whitehaven AFC and Workington Super Diamonds entered the first event of the season. With an Under 12 and Under 16 sections on the day, there was a wide age range of players getting plenty of game time throughout the morning. 

The teams who came along provide regular playing opportunities for pan disability players across Cumberland and they continue to grow providing more age groups and more opportunities thanks to their fantastic volunteers (both on the pitch and behind the scenes).

During the season there are also opportunities for Under 8 and Under 21 players to get involved.

Ray Sempill, Cumberland FA’s Football Development Officer, said: “It was wonderful to see the pitch full of players enjoying the festival atmosphere in the opening event of the season. We were delighted to welcome our new sponsors Komatsu Forest Ltd who have shown fantastic support since coming on board to support the programme for Junior and Adult players across Cumberland.”

As well as enjoying the football spectacle, new sponsors Komatsu Forest Ltd provided each player with a certificate and a bag full of Komatsu goodies! 

Stephen Bellas, Managing Director of Komatsu Forest Ltd commented on the event: "Komatsu Forest Ltd is excited and proud to be sponsors of the Cumberland Ability Counts League. We are thrilled to support the amazing players, coaches, and supporters who make these events possible. It was a fantastic day, and we were delighted to see that everyone who attended had a great time."

The Darren Buchanan Values Shield was presented to Penrith AFC Under 12’s by Stephen Bellas from Komatsu Forest Ltd. The Award, given in both the Junior and Adult events is presented to the team who demonstrates fair play and sportsmanship throughout. 

View the photos of the event on our Facebook page HERE

A special thanks to the match officials, who supported the event and helped to ensure that the matches flowed. They all gave incredible support to the players during the games, helping to create a positive environment!  

If you would like to get involved in Disability Football in Cumberland to support players or if you know someone who would be interested in playing, please email Ray Sempill, Cumberland FA’s Football Development Officer on Development@CumberlandFA.com or call 01900 511800.