Wolves Disability FC enjoy another successful season

Wolves Disability FC enjoy another successful season Image

Another successful campaign for Wolves Disability FC was officially rounded off with the end-of-season celebration night featuring over 200 guests at Molineux.

Players from the eight different teams – three at adult level, three at Under-16s and two at Under-12s – were joined by their families for the annual event including presentations linked to performances and application over the season.

Once again, it was another example of the continuing growth of the Disability set-up from when the club first set out with barely a handful of players just over a decade ago.

“It was another great night, looking back on the season and giving out all the different awards,” said Gavin Jones, Wolves Foundation’s long-serving community and cohesion officer who oversees the Disability football programme.

“Because our adult and junior teams play at different times, they are only ever together at the Play on the Pitch event so to have anyone in the same room being able to chat and mingle together shows us exactly what it’s all about.

“It was a great end to another good season, during which one of our adult teams won the league, one of our Under-16 teams reached a cup final, and we had another fantastic half time fixture at Molineux against Sheffield United.

“Beyond that though, as well as being competitive it’s also about inclusion, and to see so many of our players enjoying the chance to go out and play football is always a highlight.”

The club have been hugely appreciative this season of sponsorship support provided by Nuffield Health, on top of their own fundraising which has reached ÂŁ8,000, with several players recognised for their own fundraising by receiving signed Wolves goodies at the presentation.

There was also a surprise element for Gavin himself, when, at the start of the evening, he received his own award for Outstanding Achievement, presented by community and cohesion manager Luke Shearing and fully deserved.

“They stitched me up,” Gavin laughs.

“I had no idea it was coming and, while it’s not something I ever chase, it was really nice and left me choked up if I’m honest.

“It was a great start to the evening which continued with adding another £1,000 to that fundraising which will all be used to help the growth and development of the club.”

The eight teams will continue to play in the Staffordshire Ability Counts League next season, before which there are two pre-season tournaments for the Under-16s, one at Manchester United’s Carrington training ground and another at the Nest, Norwich Foundation’s Community Hub.

In the meantime, Monday evening sessions, which also act either purely for participation or as a pathway for prospective players, will continue at the City of Wolverhampton College’s Bilston Campus on Wellington Road.

Very soon though, the next season will come around with fixtures played at different locations across the year, including St George’s Park.

“We’ll be ready to go again,” Gavin concludes.

Anyone interested in playing or finding out more about Wolves Disability FC can email gavinjones@wolves.co.uk

As well as Nuffield Health, Wolves Foundation would also like to thank companies who donated raffle prizes for the presentation event, including Jardine Motors, Porsche Wolverhampton, the Grand Theatre, Lower Drayton Farm, Ninja Warrior Walsall, West Midlands Safari Park and Monkey Forest at Trentham.

"A football club is so important to the local community, especially when you’re a one-club city like we are, and the Foundation’s initiatives and activities are second to none."

Gary O'Neil | Wolves Head Coach

"Without Wolves Foundation I wouldn't be here today, that's for certain."

John Martin | Head 4 Health participant

"As a lifelong Wolves fan, to represent the Club and Foundation is something I'll cherish forever."

Daz James | Wolves Disability FC

"It is amazing to be out there meeting people and having some fun. It is really important for Wolves to have this connection with the fans and to see the happiness in their faces."

Toti Gomes | Wolves Defender

"Savannah absolutely loves the group. The staff are committed to making every single session fun and welcoming."

Natasha | Healthy Goals parent

"It’s special because it's my club and I’m so proud to be from Wolves as well. I can see the projects and all the work Wolves Foundation are doing and I know it makes such an impact, so to even be a little part of that and to help out where I can – it's so exciting."

Amber Sandhu | Broadcaster and Foundation Ambassador

"It’s huge for the school, I can’t speak highly enough of Wolves Foundation and the opportunities that they give us."

Mr Robinson | Woodsetton School

“I think all football clubs should be the beating heart of their communities and Wolves, through the Foundation, manages to do that."

Johnny Phillips | Sky Sports Presenter and Foundation Ambassador

"We get loads of different opportunities with a Premier League club. I feel really privileged to be a part of it."

Mustafa | Football & Education College Academy student

"Frank has Alzheimer’s Disease and when he was first diagnosed we felt lost and alone. Attending Molineux Memories is a lifeline for both of us; it is run by friendly, committed staff who ensure that everyone is included and enjoys themselves."

Frank and Alison | Molineux Memories

"To come here and be hands on with the kids is unreal. Working with Wolves and the Foundation is a blessing and I'm honoured. It feels surreal sometimes but it's the best feeling."

S-X | Music Producer and Foundation Ambassador

"It's good to give back what you got. Football and the Wolves Foundation help me, so I like to help the community."

Taye | Premier League Kicks

"Wolves has definitely helped my personal development, but now also helps me to develop people I work with. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the opportunities Wolves Foundation have given me."

Carl Ackasovs | Wolves Foundation

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