The pan-disability team run by the Trust has received new kit and equipment following fundraising organised by Maria Moore and Rebecca Lomax, who are both parents of children involved in the team.
Maria provided some background to her son’s involvement, saying: “My son first came to the pan-disability group last year. He wouldn’t do anything or engage with anybody, but he’s come so far.
“They’re a great group with all abilities. They spend time with them and give them a focus point.”
The team recently had an event held at the SMH Group Stadium, where the children were presented with new kits and trophies.
Maria said: “We’ve had a presentation for all the children and raised some money. We did a gala at Calow and raised over £700.
“We also did a run, walk and ride around the stadium with the children which raised £1,700, so we’ve kitted all the children out with a kit, football boots and a hoodie, which they received with the trophies.
“There were some very excited faces, over the moon that they are part of something that is recognised and actually in a league.
“Again, the pan-disability team (staff) have been absolutely fantastic with the children and if it wasn’t for them, the children wouldn’t have anywhere that they could call their own and their own team.”
Rebecca echoed Maria’s sentiments, saying: “It’s been an amazing experience. I’ve got a girl who as it stands is the only girl on the team. She’s been made to feel welcome and included by the staff and the other children that play.
“Within that team everyone is made to feel welcome and it’s built her confidence so much. Football is her only means of focus as she doesn’t really interact with anything else.
“The staff go above and beyond for these children and it means a lot to all of us including myself and Maria.
“Every Wednesday there is training for two different age groups so they aren’t all in one, which I find is a lot better because you’ve got bigger ones and younger ones, so it helps their confidence.
“They play in the league where they play matches, they’re all involved and the staff encourage them as much as us parents do.”
The pan-disability team will be in attendance for the Spireites’ home fixture against Dagenham & Redbridge next Saturday.
Rebecca explained: “The team will be gathered together at around half-time and we will proceed to parade around with them.
“We’re looking forward to seeing their faces and what that means to them.
“To see them walking around in their new kit and new boots that has been provided by us through all of the fundraising will be a dream come true to them.”
