Ahead of Foundation Day 2025, which takes place at this Saturday's Sky Bet Championship showdown with Sunderland, we caught up with two of the many stars of The Albion Foundation - blind footballer Eesa Amjid, and powerchair footballer Chris Gordon.
The pair discuss topics ranging from their achievements at the club so far, their pride in playing for West Bromwich Albion and what the Foundation means to them - take it away lads...
What does The Albion Foundation mean to you?
Chris: "The Foundation means an awful lot to me, they’ve given me a lot over the years. From volunteering as a child to stepping into paid job opportunities, not only that, football on the pitch has allowed me to create relationships between team-mates and fulfil my potential."
Eesa: "The Albion Foundation means a lot to me. They gave me the opportunity to play football just like every other kid. To have the opportunity to play football is brilliant. With the disability I have it’s very empowering to play football at this level. The enjoyment you get to play is amazing, and the relationships you make with the team-mates are brilliant."
What have you achieved over the last few years?
Chris: "Over the last few years we’ve been one of the most successful powerchair teams in England. We’ve won five WFA Premiership titles, three FA Disability Cups, we’re also on track for a sixth Premiership title, and in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup with those games in May and we hope to see supporters there. You can grab free tickets to that game in Derby by turning back a page and scanning the QR code."
Eesa: "I’ve won the FA Disability Cup last year and we won the National League title a couple of weekends ago. Aside from that, I’ve played in the World Cup for England."
How can fans watch your sport?
Chris: "The WFA, who are the governing body behind the sport, have got an app that you can track fixtures on, check results and watch clips, it’s a great way to keep up to date. The games are also streamed live on YouTube, that’s where you can watch full games and rewind back to different points. You can also turn up to our regular league fixtures in Nottingham for free."
Eesa: "I think it’s an impressive sport. When people first see it they’re blown away by how talented the players are. It’s very competitive and I think that’s what makes it so entertaining to watch. There’s always a livestream on YouTube which is on the day of the game, you can see that on our social media channels. It would be great to see as many people come down to Hereford for our final fixtures of the season next Saturday."
What message would you give to supporters this Foundation Day?
Chris: "I hope all supporters come out in full force on April 5, I really encourage them to come and get involved. We want them to see and appreciate what Blind and Powerchair football is like. If it’s possible we’d like everyone to donate, your money goes a long way and helps us to continue doing what we do.'
Eesa: "I think your donations will help massively for the Foundation in the community and the Foundation. I’m excited to take on Andy Johnson in the half-time penalty shootout, and hopefully I can be entertaining and not miss.
The Foundation can't wait to see you at this Saturday's Sky Bet Championship clash with Sunderland, which marks our annual Foundation Day, if you wish to donate prior to Saturday's fixture, text TAF(AMOUNT) to 70470.
