Abercorn Pupils lead Scotland Team to Victory
On 7th April The Scottish FA/Scottish Disability Sport Under-19 Learning Disability National Squad travelled to Dublin to take part in the Home Nations Football Championship. The hosts – Republic of Ireland – were defending champions.
Scotland went into their final match needing a 2-0 win against the hosts, following their 2-1 loss to Northern Ireland, but ended up exceeding expectations with a comfortable 4-0 victory thanks to goals from Abercorn pupils Wesley Young and Kyle Hannin.
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| The Team |
David McArdle, Scottish FA Disability Development Officer, said: “The squad have been fantastic and a credit to their families and their country.
“The players have been incredibly dedicated to preparing for this tournament and have reaped the rewards."
The squad, which is supported by the Scottish Football Partnership, come together once a month for training and a majority of the players regularly take part in the Scottish FA Regional School League programme for players with a Learning Disability.
“The Support we have received from the Scottish Football Partnership is invaluable to ensure we can prepare correctly and give the players the best opportunity to reach their full potential,” David added.
Preparations are underway for the next Home Nations Championships in 2014, due to be hosted in Belfast.
“The coaches are already planning to ensure we can retain our championship and enjoy a long period of success.
“I would like to thank the players and parents for their commitment to the programme and give a massive thank you to the coaches who dedicate a lot of their spare time to the programme to ensure the players can reach their full potential. “
If you wish to find out more about the Learning Disability Squad or disability football in Scotland please contact:
David.McArdle@Scottishfa.co.uk
http://www.scottishdisabilitysport.com/