The idea
Kent Lions Disability Football Club – Hear Us Roar!
Kent Lions are proud to be the largest independent disabled football club in Kent, supporting over 120 individuals with additional needs to access and play the game they love. The club is inclusive of all abilities and will never turn a player away. The club is currently run and funded entirely by passionate parents who see the physical, emotional and social benefits playing football and belonging to a club brings to their children. The only club rule is everyone plays the same game time, and no one is left out.
Started in 2021, the club’s chairman, Dan, had difficulty finding a local football club who would include and support his autistic 6-year-old son. So, he decided to create the opportunity himself. Together with other parents, he started 2 x U11 teams, and in just 3 years, the club has grown exponentially to now include 3 x U11 teams, 3 x U13 teams, 2 x U16 teams and 3 adult teams!
What we'll deliver
- New footballs and specialist equipment for those with visual impairments and mobility needs
- Football Kit and Jackets for every player which support individuals’ sensory needs
- Safe and accessible venue hire needs
- Training from FA Qualified Coaches
- Essential training and equipment for volunteers
Why it's a great idea
The rapid growth of the club has shown that there is a huge need for this opportunity for disabled children and adults in the local and wider area. The club provides a fun, safe and inclusive environment for people with additional needs. Club members can truly be themselves whilst developing social skills and forming safe and effective relationships with peers; something which can often be a challenging part of their lives.
The club has supported some of its adult players to become coaches and even supported them into paid employment. Support for the club continues to grow as more people hear of its success; players, parents and volunteers use this success to raise awareness of disabilities, and the positive impact they have to health and wellbeing. The club is completely not for profit, so every penny goes back into the players.
Steps to get it done
- Continue to pay the pitch fees to hire out all the facilities for the wellbeing of the players
- Purchase new footballs and specialist footballs for players with visual impairments
- Seek a volunteer to support with the club’s digital presence to raise the profile
- Purchase kits and jackets for all players
- Purchase specialist coaching and health and safety equipment
- Continue to support all players on their individual journeys, both on the pitch and in life
Any Funding raised will benefit every player as we are completely non profit
please feel free to check our website out to see what we are about
www.kentlionsfc.co.uk
we can also be found on facebook
