Foundation squad stars at Festival
NEWCASTLE United Foundation attended the annual Premier League/BT Disability Football Festival.
The event featured 23 teams from across the country, who travelled to Manchester City’s Aacademy for a day of fun activities and a tournament.
The Foundation team, drawn from disability football sessions at Percy Hedley SEN School, was placed in a strong group against Burnley, Hull City and Sunderland and started well - clinching 1-0 victories in its first two games.
It was Newcastle-Sunderland in the decider to top the group.
However, after a hard-fought game, the Foundation just fell short - missing out on goal difference to the Wearsiders.
The Premier League and BT launched a three-year programme in 2016 with the aim of creating opportunities and inspiring disabled people through sport.
Twenty-three professional club community groups, including Newcastle United Foundation, deliver the programme across England and Wales.
Since its launch, more than 23,000 participants have been engaged in disability sport through the initiative.
Reggie Dornan, Senior Disability Football Development Officer at the Foundation, said: “The team had an amazing time and put in some fantastic performances.
“To have the opportunity to go to Manchester City’s academy, train at the facilities and play against disability teams from all over the country was fantastic.
“It really highlights just how important the PL/BT funded programmes are when it comes to engaging our players and giving them the chance to show what they can do.” ■■WIDEOPEN Wolves Under-15s are seeking players for the new season.
Training is on Thursdays (8.009.00) at Lockey Park. Call Sean Malik on 07958 644 115.