Cumberland FA is delighted to announce that its partnership with Specsavers has been renewed for a fifth season, which will see more players benefit in 2022/23. 

Since the partnership began in 2018, more than 100 young players across Cumberland have benefitted from the scheme, supporting safe and inclusive football across the county.

Players aged 18 and under, who currently wear or need glasses to participate in grassroots football in Cumberland, are once again eligible for up to a 50% reimbursement (up to £49.50) on protective eyewear from selected Specsavers stores.

In addition, all registered referees and adults who play for or are involved with Cumberland FA affiliated clubs who wish to purchase protective sportswear from one of the four suppliers will be eligible for a Premium Club Package. This will include a free eye test and a £20 discount on all glasses priced over £99.00 (including 2 for 1).

Last season alone 70 youngsters benefited from the scheme, while the total is 116 since the start of the 2019-20 season. 

Ben Snowdon, Cumberland FA Chief Executive Officer, said: “The FA recommends protective eyewear but recognises that this may be an issue for children playing in grassroots football. As a County FA, over the past four seasons we have tried to reduce this uncertainty, ensuring the safety of both the wearer and other players, but most importantly encouraging and supporting new and existing players in playing the game. We are delighted that for the fifth season we have been able to partner with Specsavers – and we thank them for their continued support of the local game.”

Daniel Wood, Specsavers Retail Director, added: “It's a pleasure once again to work with the Cumberland FA to help deliver a scheme that gets more children and adults into football. Cumberland FA are leading the way nationally to help children play football in eyewear that is safe. All children deserve an opportunity to be involved in football and we look forward to continuing to support this initiative.”

As well as the support from Cumberland FA, the Carlisle Glass Longhorn Youth Football League and the West Cumbria Youth League have once again confirmed their commitment to provide a further 50% (or £50) off the cost to registered players; meaning players within these leagues can receive the sports-specific protective eyewear at no cost to themselves.

Specified sports protective eyewear and lenses have been priced at £99, regardless of the size and prescription.

Once the glasses have been purchased from one of the selected stores (Carlisle, Penrith, Whitehaven or Workington), customers will receive a letter from Specsavers and can then complete an application form and submit it to Cumberland FA for approval. If approved, the County FA will reimburse 50% of the cost (up to £49.50).

DOWNLOAD THE 2022-23 SPECSAVERS REIMBURSEMENT APPLICATION 

The eyewear will come with a one-year warranty and it should be noted that applicants cannot re-apply for the funding within a 12-month period unless the prescription changes.

If you have any queries, please email info@cumberlandfa.com