REPRESENTING West Bromwich Albion is a privilege that many dream of but very few get to put into practice…
However, thanks to The Albion Foundation, a group of children from The Streetly Academy got the chance to wear the famous stripes at the Premier League and BT Disability Football Festival.
The tournament, at Manchester City’s Etihad Campus, provided the chance of a lifetime for some of the children says Paul Barrett, a Teaching Assistant at the school.
“It’s been an amazing opportunity for them, they have been talking about it for weeks and weeks since they heard.
“For some of them, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
“They won't get another chance to play at facilities like this.”
Paul Hunt, The Albion Foundation’s Senior Disability Development Officer, was delighted that the children got the chance to represent West Bromwich Albion.
“It is a brilliant opportunity for the kids,” he said.
“It is an absolutely fantastic facility.
“You walk into the Sportcity and you just can't believe what you are looking at.
“It is really pleasing to give them the opportunity to represent West Bromwich Albion Disability and the Club as well.”
The day emphasised the power of football, and Mattaeus Morgan, a pupil at The Streetly Academy, says that he loves the sport because it is a way to make new friends.
“It brings everybody together,” he said.
“It is a sport that you can play with a team and with players you don't know of but you can get to know them from a game of football.”
For more information regarding The Albion Foundation’s Disability Department, please contact paul.glover@albionfoundation.co.uk.