Cumberland FA would like to express its thanks to Cumbria County Council, who provided a £550 grant in February to help us develop our popular Junior PAN Disability Football sessions at Workington Academy.

Taking place on Wednesdays between 5-6pm, the sessions have progressing significantly since the grant was obtained. With over 10 players on board, the team participated in the first disability tournament at our 2018 Charter Standard Festival, and we hope to create a disability league for the team to compete in regularly this season.

Meanwhile, our volunteer coach, Roman Todd - who has been involved since the beginning - has since completed his FA Level 1 in Coaching Football qualification.

The PAN Disability project has provided disabled children with an opportunity to join a relaxed football session and learn skills, make friends and have fun.

Ray Sempill, Football Development Officer at Cumberland FA, said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed being involved in this project. It has been great to see the players come out of their shells and become a friendship group. They support each other to score goals and learn new skills each week.

“This project wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Cumbria County Council. We look forward to starting again on Wednesday 12 September.”

Claire, a mum of one of the participants, added: “I would like to thank Cumberland FA and everyone who helps for running these sessions. As a parent it is wonderful to see how everyone encourages each other; it’s a pleasure to watch the enjoyment the kids get out of it.”

Volunteer coach, Roman Todd, said: “Becoming a coach has made me fall in love with football again and I hope I can inspire others.”

To find out more about Disability Football within Cumberland, please CLICK HERE or contact Ray Sempill on Ray.Sempill@CumberlandFA.com