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Writes: Edward Perry
The England Amputee Football Association is delighted to announce the continued support of Glasdon UK as the official sponsor for the 2024 DJ Sidebottom/Glasdon Charitable Junior programme.
The DJ Sidebottom/Glasdon Charitable Programme has generously donated an additional £15,000 to the EAFA to provide juniors with six training camps throughout the 2024 campaign.
Their sponsorship in 2023 has already resulted in more camps than ever before, doubling the contact time of juniors compared to previous years.
This funding gives four to 18-year-old amputees and those with limb-affecting disabilities the chance to try football in a fun, secure and friendly environment.
EAFA Junior head coach Harry Smith said: “The support Glasdon UK gave us this year [2023] is incredible. It enabled us to put on more camps than ever before and we’ve reached more juniors than ever before.”
“Being able to provide that environment of togetherness more and more each year is really important for us, which gives more opportunities for our juniors to develop not only within amputee football but also socially.”
“We’re really pleased that they are supporting us again in 2024 and our partnership is key in enabling us to keep on providing this amazing service to our juniors.”
The partnership between Glasdon UK and the EAFA has helped build our Junior Programme to record-breaking numbers, with over 50 children actively registered. The support of Glasdon UK will enable more juniors and their families to engage in the programme in 2024.
2023 has seen an increased involvement amongst young girls, with the EAFA proudly welcoming nine females into the EAFA family - mirroring the growth seen across the world for women’s football.
The EAFA Junior Programme was the first step into amputee football for several senior team players and the support of DJ Sidebottom/Glasdon Charitable Programme will undoubtedly see more juniors progress through the ranks into both our Men's and Women’s national teams.
EAFA Chairman and 1988 WAFF World Cup winner Steve Johnson said: “It’s really important that we have the younger players coming through - if their commitment is there, they can go right to the top.”
Steve Johnson also stressed the importance of how the camps develop a real family atmosphere for both players and parents.
“It’s vitally important for social interaction opportunities, to come here and see other children with similar disabilities, it’s great for them to feel included and on a level playing field.”
Elaine Oakey, EAFA Junior Co-ordinator, expressed her appreciation for the sponsorship provided, revealing that it has taken immense pressure off the team as they have been able to help every person who has asked for support.
To learn more about The DJ Sidebottom/Glasdon Charitable Programme, please visit https://www.djsglasdoncharitableprogramme.org
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