In a recent trip to Carrington, Manchester United Foundation’s Powerchair football team had an inspirational meet and greet with club captain Bruno Fernandes.

 

After surprising young fan Bobby Moore as part of the Premier League’s Fan Mail series, the Foundation’s Powerchair football team took part in various drills to support the youngster and celebrate their combined passion for disability football.

 

Captain of Manchester United Foundation and Sale United’s Powerchair team, Kieran, was blown away by the event.

 

Kieran said: “Being here definitely gives you the urge to fight for the badge. I come down from Scotland every week to train, this isn’t just a hobby; this is basically my life.

 

“To meet Bruno and be here, you realise how massive Manchester United is and how much of a difference it can make to everyone’s lives.”

 

The Foundation delivers two weekly Powerchair football sessions, in partnership with Sale United FC, helping to promote football opportunities for wheelchair users. Taking place on an indoor surface, Kieran explained how much these sessions mean to him.

 

“When you grow up in a wheelchair, you don’t anticipate or expect to play football,” he continued.

 

“It’s very alienating and when I was younger, I really wanted to play but there was no real way of doing it. But then I discovered Powerchair football. It changes your life.

 

“It’s not just about the game; it’s more than that. It helps your mental health and the way you feel about yourself and the way we feel about each other. You realise everyone is different and being part of that community makes you accept the fact that you’re in a wheelchair, but more importantly, that it’s not a bad thing. It means everything.”

 

For more information about powerchair football, visit: https://www.thewfa.org.uk/