Premier League Disability Football Festivals opening doors for young people

Find out how Premier League programmes are having a significant impact on young people with disabilities both on and off the pitch

This summer, three Premier League Disability Football Festivals were delivered by club charities in partnership with the Premier League Charitable Fund, using the power of football to empower young people with disabilities.

Hosted by Everton, West Bromwich Albion and Arsenal, the events provided opportunities for neurodivergent young people and those with sensory or physical disabilities to build confidence, develop skills and enjoy the game in a supportive and inclusive environment.

The festivals showcased the impact of the Premier League's community programmes - Premier League Kicks, Premier League Inspires, and Premier League Primary Stars - which connect young people with football, offering positive experiences that help them thrive on and off the pitch.

Across the three events, more than 750 young people from over 65 professional football clubs came together to take part in six-a-side matches, interactive workshops and activities designed to support both physical and mental wellbeing.

We caught up with participants taking part in the football festival hosted by The Albion Foundation, to hear how events like these are making a lasting impact.

Eshan, West Brom

For Eshan, football has always been more than just a game, it's a source of strength, pride, and personal growth. He shared with us how the sport has shaped his life.

"Football means a lot to me because I've been playing it since I was little. My dad taught me when I was young. Taking part in things like this has changed me as a person. I’m more confident. I have more belief in myself than I used to."

Eshan is deaf in both ears and wears one cochlear implant. Communication is his biggest challenge and football has helped him overcome barriers and build resilience.

"The lack of communication I have makes playing football a challenge. But playing football has helped me improve a lot. Even though I've got a disability I know I can still play."

Representing West Bromwich Albion at the festival was a dream come true for him.

"It feels like a once in a lifetime experience because I've always wanted to represent a club. It's a great source of pride to be able to wear the West Brom kit. I feel like I'm part of a community."

Eshan's message to other young people with disabilities was simple but powerful.

"If you have this opportunity take it. You never know what will happen."

Jayden, Aston Villa

For Jayden, football is a lifelong passion and a powerful part of his identity. 

As a participant at the Premier League Disability Football Festival and devoted Aston Villa supporter, he had the chance to represent the club he’s loved since childhood.

"It's amazing to be able to play for the club I've supported since I was about five. It's really meaningful. It feels like a privilege. I love playing for Villa and I love football."

Jayden lives with profound deafness and lost one of his eyes from a disease in early childhood that meant it had to be surgically removed. Yet, he doesn't see this as an obstacle.

"I don't really see it as a disability. I live with it. It makes me who I am and it's made me more resilient. I don't see challenges. I just see it as something to do."

Whether navigating group conversations or scanning the pitch, Jayden seems to embrace every moment with determination.

"When I'm in groups with friends I can't always hear them. And when I'm on a football pitch it's harder to see everything but I can still do it."

Through football, Jayden has found more than just a team - he's found friendship, purpose, and joy.

"Aston Villa has given me two of my best friends and has cemented our friendship. Football gives you so much meaning in life. It's a brilliant opportunity.

"This festival is a pathway to meet new people you might become friends with to play football. We all love it and it really is a great event. You can just see it: there are no arguments just happiness."

Jacob, Wolverhampton Wanderers (pictured right)

For Jacob, living with ADHD means he often struggles with emotion regulation, fidgeting and concentration, but football offers him an important outlet.

"Say you're having a bad day, you can come and release your emotions healthily by playing on the pitch. Football is a way to get better and enjoy yourself."

Being part of the Premier League Disability Football Festival with the Wolves Foundation was a moment Jacob was proud of.

"We're blessed really because it's not every day you get invited by the Premier League to come down to a training ground and play against other clubs. It's quite a special thing." 

Ty, Tilly and Leo, Swansea City

Siblings Leo, Tilly, and Ty took part in the festival representing Swansea City AFC Foundation.

"I'm the oldest," says Leo. "Tilly and Ty are twins. We're a big family and our mum and dad actually started and run our team Rose Hill. It's a disability football team in Swansea.

"We've all been excited for today. Our coach told us about it through Premier League Kicks which has opened up so many opportunities."

Tilly, who also takes part in Premier League Kicks, said: "Premier League Kicks has helped me make friends and feel included.

"You can just turn up and play. The football is fun. The coaches are great and they'll always help you out."

Ty lives with ADHD and autism and says football has been a huge support.

"I don’t see my ADHD as a challenge. It's just something I work with. Football helps me manage my emotions and feel part of something.

"Everyone here is really nice. I'd tell other kids: have fun and support people with different disabilities."

Chris Gordon, Head of Powerchair Football, Albion Foundation

Chris, a Paralympic Powerchair Footballer, has represented England since 2013.

Alongside his team-mates, Chris took home the trophy for the European Championships in 2019 and finished runner-up in the 2023 World Cup.

"Football's always been a huge part of my life," he said. "As my disability progressed I started using a powerchair more often and discovered powerchair football through my PE teacher.

"At first I didn't think it resembled football but once I got stuck in I realised how special it was. It gave me the chance to play on a level field with others like me."

Chris now trains at the Albion Foundation where he sees the impact of inclusive sport every week.

"There's so much provision for disability sport here. We share the space with blind footballers and other teams. It’s brilliant. Football teaches discipline builds confidence and creates community."

Reflecting on the Premier League Disability Football Festival, he added: "It's amazing to see so many young players passionate about the game.

"There's a real feel-good spirit. I just hope we continue to see more recognition and support for disability football at every level." 

Charlotte Jones, Disability Football Coach, Aston Villa Foundation

Coach Charlotte Jones leads disability football sessions as part of Aston Villa Foundation's Premier League Kicks programme.

"For some of our young people this is their first time at a Premier League tournament or even their first tournament ever. Seeing them smile and work as a team is what makes my job amazing. When they're happy I'm happy."

Charlotte highlights how disability-specific sessions provide a vital space for young people to thrive.

"Some have tried mainstream teams but found it too physical or overwhelming. In our sessions they get the support they need.

"For example one of our new players is brilliant on the ball but struggles when he loses possession. Here he has the space to grow."

Charlotte's journey into coaching began at a small academy, volunteering with disability teams and school programmes.

"I've coached players since under-12 who are now adults. Watching that development is incredible. Hearing positive feedback from parents is why I do it."

Ajay Gill, Head of Disability, Albion Foundation 

Ajay proudly hosted the Premier League Disability Football Festival with the help of his team, welcoming 24 clubs from across the West Midlands.

"I've been with the Foundation for 12 years, eight of those in disability football. Hosting this event has been a long-standing ambition and I feel incredibly proud of the work our team has put in."

Ajay is passionate about using the power of football to create a sense of belonging.

"Many of the individuals we work with just want to feel part of something. Football is a powerful vehicle for that. When you're associated with a club and feel part of it, it's a beautiful thing; for the individuals and for their families."

He's seen first hand how football supports young people's development.

"Working in the disability space I see so many positives especially in how children develop their social skills. Many of these individuals face barriers due to their disabilities and environments but football helps them grow both on and off the pitch. It boosts their confidence and self-esteem. It gives them a sense of purpose.

"For me the biggest thing is that they get to make new friends. These friends will have similar needs similar ways of thinking and shared emotions.

"It's beautiful to see them interact with their peers and the relationships they build with staff are second to none. I’ve been lucky to experience it firsthand and I’m just honoured to be part of today."

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