How our weekly football sessions are helping brothers Mark and Mike feel more comfortable and included

Brothers Mark (8) and Mike have (6) been coming to the Croydon Local Authority Sports Development Team and our weekly pan-disability sessions for about six months now.

These sessions are open to youngsters between 5 and 8 who live with a disability or additional challenges, who go to school in Croydon and want to have the chance to play football every week, learn new skills and make friends along the way.

Their mum has seen a big difference in how they interact with others and engage with activities each week:

‘When Mark and Mike started the football session at first both of them are not open to the activity, however gradually with patience and support from the coaches, and attending the session consistently, they both have improved with their social interaction skills and  inclusion. My boy’s look forward to every Wednesday evening; this session has also added to their stimulation. They love the football match towards the end of each session. One of them finds being out-door very difficult, but with time and consistency this sport session is the longest he comfortably stays without being overwhelmed.’

Our Disability Inclusion Officer Ben Perryman, who coaches each week at the session told us:

“When both Mark and Mike first attended they were quiet and shy but enjoyed kicking a football. Over the last couple of months, they have both come out their shell and improved both football and listening skills. It has been a pleasure coaching these boys who are keen to show all their skills!!’

As a big thank you to them for making the sessions so much fun for everyone who attends, the boys were given tickets to a match against Everton match the Sensory Room!

These sessions take place every Wednesday between 4:30 – 5:30pm at Waddon Leisure Centre. To get involved, please email Ben at benperryman@palaceforlife.org