Club Ambassador Lucas Radebe made a surprise visit to one of the Leeds United Foundation's Sunshine & Smiles sessions to highlight World Down Syndrome Day recently.

Sunshine & Smiles work closely with the Foundation to host dedicated Down syndrome football sessions that are run weekly and are designed to be fun, inclusive and supportive, giving children and young people with Down syndrome a safe and free space to be active, build confidence and develop their football skills at their own pace.

The charity Sunshine & Smiles provide a support network in Leeds for children and young people who have Down syndrome, and their families. Founded in 2011 as a small group offering support and becoming an official charity two years later, the organisation are the only specific support network in the city.

Aiming to improve the lives and opportunities for children and young people with Down syndrome, Sunshine & Smiles offer speech and language therapy, regular groups and activities, individual support and advocacy for families, as well as raising awareness and challenging preconceptions in the wider community. They achieve this by establishing links with hospitals, health and education professionals and connecting with other related charities.

The Leeds United Foundation's coach, Iain Doorandish, tailors everything in the session to individual needs, and the sessions have grown into a little community, with families regularly expressing how much their children look forward to it each fortnight.

Richard Foye from the Foundation led the event. He commented: "It's a really positive, welcoming environment that celebrates the abilities of every young person."

On Lucas Radebe's visit, he said: "Lucas’ visit will mean a lot to the group. He’s such an inspirational figure for Leeds United supporters and the city as a whole, and his involvement really highlights the club’s commitment to inclusive football. The young people and their families absolutely loved having him here."

Joanna Rowlands from Sunshine & Smiles also added: "We had a fantastic morning at our football session with Lucas. He got fully involved, engaging with our players of all ages, and made the whole session really uplifting. Thank you, Lucas, for making it a memorable and fun experience for everyone!"

The Leeds United Foundation are running some free Down syndrome football sessions starting on the 11th May. To register your interest, please contact [email protected].