THERE are few things more exciting than a world cup, and Germany is busy preparing for theirs, thanks to a Reading man.
Vistry Thames Valley donated £2,000 to help the team as they get ready for the World Amputee Football Federation (WAFF) World Cup in Turkey in October.
The link-up came about after Reading-based senior site manager Dan Knowles told the company’s managing director about the team, which his son Jamie is part of.
The 16-year-old was born with a bone missing in his left leg and had an amputation below the knee when he was just one, and plays in midfield for the German team.
Dan, who oversees construction at Shinfield Meadows in Reading where Vistry is building Bovis Homes and Linden Homes properties, set up an online appeal to raise £8,000 to help fund the side’s appearance.
He also asked Trevor Wicks, managing director at Vistry Thames Valley, if he could help.
“To my delight Trevor did not hesitate and said the company would donate £2,000 to the appeal,” said Dan.
“It is a very generous gesture from Vistry Thames Valley and a brilliant boost for the team and will pay for a full kit with money left over to assist with other expenses.
“The team was not supposed to be going to the World Cup but, as Russia has been banned from the competition, the German side was invited as it was first reserve after finishing ninth at the European Amputee Football Championships last year.
“The team has suddenly had to try to find the money to allow it to compete and thanks to fundraising has just about raised the £11,000 or so that they need.”
Dan adds: ”Unlike the Premier League, the world of amputee football is not awash with millions of pounds and it can be difficult for teams to secure sponsorship. Jamie and the rest of the team are very excited about making the most of this unexpected chance to play in a world cup, which is every footballer’s dream.”
Dan saw Jamie, who lives in Germany with his mother, make his international debut on his 16th birthday at last year’s European Amputee Football Championship and the proud father has booked his flights to Turkey to attend the WAFF World Cup to watch him play.
And Vistry is pleased to be playing its part in making the team’s trip to Turkey possible.
Trevor says: “It is a pleasure to be able to help ensure that Jamie’s team gets the funding together to enable the side to participate at this international competition.
“At Vistry, we are one big family and always try to look after each other, so it was not a difficult decision to donate the money to help Dan’s son Jamie pursue his sporting dream to play in a world cup.
“It is great to see amputee football emerging as an international sport and we are delighted to be able to help back one of the teams in its challenge for honours.”
Details about Dan’s appeal can be found at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/daniel-knowles-2
