The club’s pan-disability programme, which was part-funded by Manchester FA’s ‘Turn Up and Play’ scheme, has been so well-received that the programme has now produced a team of pan-disability footballers.

Training once-a-week at Flixton Girls’ School, the team recently played its first fixture, against CP United.

Ultimately, the club aims to take part in the Greater Manchester Ability Counts League, the pan-disability competition for players of all abilities and gender, which takes place on a fortnightly basis at Salford Sports Village.

Ian Frith, who leads AFC Urmston Meadowside’s Disability Football programme, commented on the success of the club’s disability football:

“Our pan-disability sessions have brought together a group of children, with various disabilities but one common goal - to have fun!  

“You cannot help but share the children’s enthusiasm for football. Everyone involved in the sessions, parents and coaches included, are having a great time!”   

Manchester FA’s Disability Football Development Officer, Steven Edwards, said: 

“Having more Charter Standard Clubs develop an inclusive Football Development programme is a real priority for Manchester FA.  

“It’s great to see what AFC Urmston Meadowside have achieved in such a short period of time. That is thanks in no small part to the hard work of the club volunteer coaches and enthusiasm shown by all at the club.”

The ‘Grow The Game’ application window has now opened, and allows Charter Standard clubs to apply for up to £1500 worth of funding to develop new disability football teams.

Interested? Follow the link below to contact Manchester FA kick off your application!

Contact Manchester FA