Kate is a teenager who thought she would never play football. She had a ‘can’t do, won’t do’ attitude to life. Kate looks like any other 17 year old, but has the learning capability of a 6 year old. Her disability has fuelled an inner frustration and communication barrier. She thought it would be impossible to make friends and was a target for bullies.

To combat the frustration, her Mum and Dad gave her a football to kick about. She joined a football club designed to support young children with disabilities and has never missed a session since! She now openly communicates with others, laughs regularly and can catch a ball – something so easily taken for granted by others.

"Football has given my daughter a ‘can do, will do’ attitude, she has become a determined, motivated young lady who isn’t judged by others, and is seen as part of the team. She is accepted for who she is and has a better chance in life because of her love for the game. If she could speak to you now she would tell you how much she loves football – it’s improved her life more than I could ever express."

Kate’s Mum, Sharon Jackson