Ascot United Warriors are on the lookout for players to join their team in the hope of competing at the Special Olympics.
The mixed ability team, which gives people with learning disabilities the opportunity to play football, was established in May 2022 after being started by Donna Molyneux who helps to run the sessions.
“My son Brett who has learning disabilities and autism was a member of Special Olympics for over 18 years,” said Donna.
“He played football, rugby, basketball and athletics in the summer.
“I contacted Special Olympics GB to ask about local clubs in the area after moving back to the UK from New Zealand but sadly there were none.
“I contacted Ascot United and although they were happy to assist, it was the beginning of the lockdown era and the idea was not able to occur.
“This year I approached Special Olympics again with the suggestion that I start my own Special Olympics team running out of Ascot United.
“Ascot were involved with many conference calls between SOGB and myself and with their strong support the team was tentatively beginning.
“Ascot have accessed funding via the FA to fund a coach for the team every Sunday evening.”
The team is open to people with learning disabilities aged 18 or over to provide sporting opportunities post school.
They train on Sunday evenings from 5pm-6.30pm.
Donna continued: “We now have players travelling by train from as far away as Reading to be able to be a part of a very Special team. We need more players to be able to compete in Special Olympic football matches.”
Donna’s son, Brett, has previously competed at the World Games where he represented Special Olympics New Zealand in Abu Dhabi in March 2019.
The World Games takes place every four years with the next edition of the games coming next year which will be hosted in Berlin, Germany,
Ascot United Chairman Simon Negus added: “As one of the biggest community clubs in the country, it’s really important we provide access to football for all members of our community. We’re delighted to support the Ascot Warriors and look forward to seeing the numbers grow.”
For more information, contact [email protected]
