Each month CITC is spotlighting its work and programmes through the voices and stories of its participants across Manchester.
In the latest story, Lucas, a One City Disability Powerchair participant, discusses how attending the CITC sessions for more than ten years has changed his life and allowed him to take part in a sport he loves so much.
Talking about the impact the sessions have had on his life, Lucas said: “I never thought I’d play football, never mind for a Premier League team.
“I now feel like the sky is the limit and I could one day play for England.
“If I didn’t have the sessions to attend on a Thursday night, I’d just be sat in the house, especially in the winter.”
CITC’s One City Disability sessions provide a safe, inclusive, environment for persons with all disabilities to enjoy and get involved in sporting activates and footballing opportunities, no matter their ability.
Disabilities are not always visible, so it is a key part of CITC’s One City Disability programme to provide a safe environment for all, no matter if their disability is visible or not.
CITC also make use of the Etihad’s Stadium Sensory Room which caters to people with a variety of disabilities, including autism, providing them with a space to enjoy the football without experiencing loud crowd noise.
The charity invites its partner SEN schools to the stadium to use the sensory room space and experience the benefits of innovative sensory technology in a comfortable environment.
Back in December, Lucas met City and England winger Jack Grealish as the pair took part in a friendly game of EA FC 24, as part of the announcement of Nissan as CITC’s Official Equality Diversity and Inclusion Partner.
City in the Community empowers healthier lives with city youth through football.
To find out more, visit www.mancity.com/CITC or follow the charity on social media @CITCmancity.
