Leeds United were pleased to be represented at a number of Disability Football Festivals this summer, hosted by the Premier League at various locations across the UK with more than 750 participants getting involved.
Young people from across England and Wales were invited to events at Arsenal, West Bromwich Albion and Everton, coming together to showcase inclusion, resilience and opportunity, providing action both on the pitch, and a variety of activities and workshops off the pitch designed to support physical and mental wellbeing.
These festivals brought together players from disability initiatives run by more than 65 professional football clubs, including the Leeds United Foundation, in Under-11-mixed and 14 to 16-year-old-mixed age group activities.
Jack, who represented Leeds United at Everton in the Community’s festival during the summer, spoke about his experiences, as well as the importance of these events.
“I’m so grateful that I have had the chance to come here, I love representing my home town. It’s given me an opportunity that I didn’t have before.
“I have Perthes Disease so my leg has been shrinking and my bones have been softening. I’ve walked with a limp all my life, I have had two operations and it’s been difficult for me and my family.
"The recovery was long. I was stuck inside all day. I was in a wheelchair. I had to sleep downstairs because I couldn't walk up the stairs but I kept on pushing myself and it's got better and better.
"I would get judged and that would give me anxiety, but you just have to ignore those people. You may have judged me then, but I've got a lot better, my self confidence has risen and I've been playing for a Premier League club.
"Being here is like I am being noticed. People aren't judging me, and I have had a chance to express myself and show off my skills. Honestly, that means a lot. I'm just really happy I'm here - it's like a dream come true."
To read more about the Premier League Disability Football Festivals, please click the following link: https://www.premierleague.com/en/news/4395722
