As part of disability month, City in the Community have hosted a primary special school football tournament.

Three primary schools competed in the event which took place at Platt Lane Training Complex on Tuesday 5 February.

The three schools involved; Ashgate School from Wythenshawe, The Birches School from Didsbury and Camberwell Park School from Blackley, have all previously received football coaching sessions in school as part of the ‘One City’ Disability Sport programme.

The three year programme is funded by the Premier League Charitable Fund and aims to increase sporting opportunities and develop player pathways for disabled people in Manchester.

The teams played each other twice with the emphasis being on enjoyment and participation. 

The pupils all demonstrated plenty of skill, teamwork and scored lots of goals with each game being very close. 

Both Camberwell Park A and B teams ended up in joint first only for Camberwell Park A team to win on goal difference.  

Camberwell Park A collected the ‘One City’ cup to ovation from all the players, teachers and coaches.  

The Birches School collected the fair play award to celebrate their sportsmanship and efforts throughout the day.

“We enjoy being a part of CITC’s ‘One City’ Disability Sport programme and we had a great day at the football tournament, thanks for all the hard work from your coaches and young helpers,” said Lindsey Mason from Camberwell Park.

The day was supported by pupils from Grange Horizon secondary school who acted as referees on the day.  

Paul Kelly, Disability Coordinator said: “The tournament was a great success and it was an amazing day for all involved.”

“It is the first time many of the pupils have had the opportunity to play in a competitive environment and it gave them the chance to practice the skills they have been taught in school.”

For more information regarding the ‘One City’ Disability Sport Programme please contact Paul Kelly on 0161 436 7834 or email paul.kelly2@mcfc.co.uk.