Tees Valley scores with special festival

The Herlingshaw Centre in Eston played host to an action-packed football festival for over 100 primary-aged children from 10 special education schools and units across the region.

Over 20 coaches from the Middlesbrough Football Club in the Community (MFCiC) project were on hand to run a series of skills workstations throughout the morning with matches being played during the afternoon session.

The festival, supported by Tees Valley Sport and the Redcar & Eston School Sports Partnership, brought together children with learning and physical disabilities to enjoy a fun day of activity, coaching and competition – appearances from Roary the Lion and Boro star David Wheater, ensuring that the day was a roaring success.

David kindly donated a signed shirt on the day – won by South Bank School - and spoke passionately about the event;

“These festivals give kids of all abilities the chance to enjoy a kickabout – and there’s nothing they like more! To see them all being treated equally in such a friendly environment is great and you can see just how much confidence it gives them. The coaches work really well with the kids and make sure they enjoy the day.”

Disability Coordinator for MFCiC, Paul Campbell, was also pleased with the turnout;

“The day was a huge success with a fantastic number of children taking part and it was great to see so many smiling faces. The day was made even more special by a guest appearance from Middlesbrough star David Wheater, who posed for photographs, signed autographs and answered questions from the children.”

It is now hoped that some of the children will start attending the MFCiC soccability club that takes place every Saturday morning from 10am until 11:30am. Club manager, Brian Agar is keen to welcome new members as the club continues from growing from strength to strength.

Also speaking at the festival was Tees Valley Sport’s disability football officer, Paul Kreczak;

“Thanks must go to Middlesbrough Football Club in the Community for providing a brilliant venue and over 20 coaches to help make the festival a great success. Helping the young people to develop their skills in a fun, friendly way is great for junior football in the area.”

For more information contact Paul Campbell at paul.campbell@mfcp.co.uk or 01642 451810.