Volunteer football coaches wanted for disability and SEN football club

BridgeAbility

New helpers and coaches are wanted for the BridgeAbility disability and SEN football club.

Anyone wishing to help as a coach will be offered FA training and mentoring from within the club to fulfil the role.

BridgeAbility offers weekly training sessions (Mondays) and take part in monthly matches within the Lancashire FA Ability Counts League. Players can choose either to just train, or play in the competitive league matches which are once a month during the season (Saturdays).

Garry Smith, BridgeAbility coordinator and lead coach, said: “BridgeAbility is a great club that will help you exercise and develop your football skills. We aim to get young people and adults out of the house where they can exercise by playing football and make lots of new friends and teammates.

“With such importance currently being placed on mental health and well-being, we are working hard at creating more social-based activities and evenings, where friendships and confidence can flourish in an inclusive atmosphere and environment.”

The team currently consists of players aged 14 to 35 who have conditions such as Down's syndrome and cerebral palsy, although anyone aged 11+ with a disability or additional needs is welcome to join. There is no upper age limit for players.

Anyone wishing to train with BridgeAbility will need a training kit, trainers, shin pads and a drink. Subs cost £10 a month, which cover the cost of the kit, transport for the away trips and matches, plus the hire of training facilities.

Any leftover funding will go towards developing opportunities for new social events. The club recently held its first social event at Bamford Bowling Club, having previously been tenpin bowling in Rochdale and paint balling in Cheshire.

BridgeAbility training sessions take place from 5pm-6pm at Hopwood Hall College in Middleton on Monday evenings. Summer sessions are held at Bridge Junior Football Club’s ground in Bamford.

If you’re interested in volunteering, please email or text Garry Smith: gazzasmiff58@gmail.com or text on (07918) 176917.