The first part of the session involved the U18’s taking part in an interactive disability awareness session which is normally delivered by City in the Community to primary schools in Manchester with the aim of raising awareness of disability and promoting positive attitudes towards diversity. Both teams then joined forces to play a friendly football match.
Mike Green, Head of City in the Community commented: “What a fantastic evening! City in the Community started its first amputee football team 18 months ago and it continues to go from strength to strength. We provide free weekly coaching to more than 100 regular participants at City Football Academy, including the 20 strong amputee team where every player has an inspiring background.
“Community is embedded into the fabric of the Club so it’s important that Manchester City players of all ages experience first-hand the community work that goes on locally.”
Budding footballer Jamie Tregaskiss, 20, joined the team after losing his left leg to hip cancer six years ago. Jamie quickly built a reputation as star player and is regarded as one of the best players in world amputee football.
Jamie said: “This evening has been a lot of fun, and it’s been great meeting Manchester City’s U18 players. I’ve enjoyed giving them an insight into amputee football and the skill involved – it’s a lot harder than it looks, but so much fun. Since losing my leg, City in the Community has given me an opportunity to continue playing football in this fantastic facility.
City Football Academy has hosted two national amputee training camps since it’s opening in December and last season it’s One City’ disability programme worked with 1,000 young people and adults with the aim of providing football opportunities for all.
To find out more about City in the Community’s programmes, visit www.mcfc.co.uk/community.
