Ashlee Speight has been attending Leeds United Foundation’s pan-disability sessions for nearly six years, and after being called-up to England Mencap’s recent training sessions, he says football is helping him to enjoy his life.

Ashlee has epilepsy, autism, ADHD and asthma, which he admits has made football tough at times, but he says the Foundation’s weekly sessions have helped him to grow in confidence and ability, which has led him to training with England’s dedicated side for athletes with learning disabilities.

Reflecting on his rise to national recognition, Ashlee says football has played an important role in his life, not only physically, but mentally also.

“It’s been tricky at times with my ADHD,” said Ashlee. “Sometimes I lose my head, but I’ve started to understand the game and that it’s going to be a physical sport. I’ve got an understanding of that and I’m managing to play confidently and just enjoy it.

“I get a bit angry and lose my head sometimes, but it’s part and parcel of being a contact sport. You are going to get people foul you, but you’ve got to keep your cool. When I lose my head, the Foundation coaches tell me to calm down, and then play on and enjoy it.”

Ashlee places importance on football’s ability to give him confidence, and enjoy all aspects of his life more.

“The Foundation sessions have helped me boost my confidence more,” explains Ashlee. “When I first started I wasn’t a very confident person and I would shy away. But it’s progressed me as a person to become more confident and enjoy it. The coaches have seen a lot of progression in my play style and being more confident on the ball and challenging 50-50s.”

“Football has been a relaxed thing to enjoy. It’s been important for not just my physical help but for my mental health. It helps me release stress when I’ve got stressed moments and tough times. It helps me enjoy my life.”