Ability Counts in Schools Football Festival

19th October 2011

The Cumbria schools Ability Counts football programme kicked off for the season 2011/12 recently.

The first 'Ability Counts Football Festival', a partnership between Cumberland FA, Carlisle United FITC and Cumbria Schools FA was hosted by Netherhall School, Maryport.

The festival was aimed at pupils from special schools and mainstream schools giving individuals the opportunity to play in school teams in an organised festival. Pupils with a learning disability, hearing impairment, physical disability (Ambulant), emotional and behavioural needs from the various schools took part in the fun festival.

Six teams took part from Stainburn School; St Benedict's and George Hastwell.

Prior to each match, teams performed The FA Respect Handshake. Each team played against each other, and as no scores were recorded, players could enjoy and experience the opportunity of playing football in matches with no added pressure on them.

Each match was officiated by sports leaders from Solway Community Technology College, Silloth. Paul Jennings, Disability Football Development Officer says "A big thank you to Jess Lawson and her team of sports leaders in supporting the festival."

The event was rounded off with Dave Prothero from Cumbria Schools FA presenting certificates to all participants.

The event was a great success with players, teachers and parents all going away happy having enjoyed a really fun day.

The next Schools Ability Counts Festival will be held on Wednesday 23rd November 2011 and will be hosted at The Sands Centre, Carlisle.

For more details on Schools Ability Counts Festivals, please contact Paul Jennings, Disability Football Development Officer on 01900 872310.