Club News

Brunt helps launch BT Disability Fund

Albion Foundation joins forces with BT Sport and the Premier League

CHRIS Brunt was in attendance earlier this month as The Albion Foundation helped launch the BT Sport Football Disability Programme.

The new initiative for the 2016/17 season aims to create possibilities for those with learning difficulties and disabilities through sport.

Recommended to the Premier League by BT Sport as a leading figure in the promotion of disability sport, The Albion Foundation laid on a coaching day on Tuesday filmed as part of a launch video to be released later this month.

Brunt was joined by over 80 adults aged 16-60 from Sandwell College, Sandwell Adult Services and disabled football teams from the Foundation itself at Portway Lifestyle Centre for an afternoon of football.

The Northern Ireland international met up with Ryan Kavanagh, a representative of The Albion Foundation, to talk about the Disability Fund and how it can build on the outstanding work that the Foundation is already doing in this area. 


After his dad approached the Foundation to see if it could offer support, Ryan has been volunteering one day a week, proving a good role model for other students with disabilities. 

The 23-year-old told the Baggies midfielder that his confidence has improved and he feels he's developing thanks to the work of The Albion Foundation.

Albion Foundation Director Rob Lake heaped praise on Brunt for his work on the day which involved meeting the attendees, signing footballs, and taking on Ryan in a penalty shootout.

“Brunty’s always a class act. He’s got time for the lads and he’s a true pro. BT were blown away by him, Ryan’s story and the afternoon as a whole," said Lake.

“Ryan is a lovely lad who is a credit to his family and who has grown in confidence so much whilst being with us. He’s a real asset and addition to our team."

You will be able to see films showing the work of The Albion Foundation and other clubs involved in the new scheme on BT Sport throughout the season.