Over 30 adults with disabilities from Ards and North Down are learning to kick, shoot and score at a weekly football class delivered by Irish Football Association (IFA) qualified coaches at Ards Leisure Centre.
The course is organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council as part of its strategy to improve the health and wellbeing of everyone living in the area by increasing participation in sport.
The course is for adults with additional physical and learning needs. It teaches members the basic skills required to play football. In addition, the participants have the opportunity to put their talents to the test in mini matches as part of each class.
As Chair of Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Community and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Kellie Armstrong, explains, the course teaches much more than football skills. She said: “The football class for disabled adults has been taking place for nearly two years. With over 30 adults taking part every week, it has proven extremely popular. Participation ensures that the adults get sixty of the 150 minutes of recommended weekly exercise. Plus, the members don’t just learn football skills. The class helps participants to develop vital team work skills as well as boosting their confidence and self-esteem.”
The football class takes place at Ards Leisure Centre on Mondays from 11am until 12 noon. Each session costs £2. It is open to any adult in Ards and North Down with a disability. For more information or to get involved contact the Council’s Football Development Service on 0300 013 3333.
