Foundation

People's Cup Regional Round One

The Albion Foundation and Sandwell Inclusion League hosted The FA People’s Cup Disability Regional First Round.

Footballers with varying disabilities took part in the tournament, once again showcasing the power of the sport.

"This edition of the cup is for anyone with a disability that still enables them to play the running form of the sport," explained Paul Glover, The Albion Foundation Head of Disability.

"It's anybody with cerebral palsy, visual impairments, hearing impairments, learning difficulties, amputees, just any impairment that means you can still play the running game."

Held by the Foundation for the third year running, Paul was pleased to have been selected by the FA once again.

"I think they've seen how successful our Sandwell Inclusion League has been over the years and you've only got to look around today to see the smiling faces – I think that's testament to the work we do here."

Aside from a chance at glory, the day also had great benefit for the players ranging from 12-years-old to 60-plus.

"They get to socialise, it's competitive and it's the enjoyment they get from it," Paul added.

"It's like all of us – we want to play football and this is at a level appropriate to them and so benefit from it."

Ryan Lowe took part in the tournament for BMET College and enjoyed spending the day playing the sport he loves dearly.

"Today's been good, I enjoy the matches and I like to play football – it gives me something to do," he said.

"It's a good cup because it's inclusive."

West Bromwich Albion Strips were victorious in the Premiership Male Division and their star performer, Callum Leak, had a day to remember.

"It's been an experience, it's enjoyable to experience new players and teams and it's a lot of fun. It's given everyone a chance to have a go," said Callum.

"The cup is really fun and it's just enjoyable to play the game that you love."

26 teams comprised from the respective foundations of Albion, Wolves, and Villa were joined by Leek Town, Walsall College, Autonomy, Aspie Avengers, Starlands St Anne's, BMET College, and Kidderminster in the five-a-side competition at George Salter Academy, with the following teams progressing to the Regional Semi-Finals in March at Portway Lifestyle Centre:

Premiership Adult: West Bromwich Albion Stripes

Championship Adult: Kidderminster Athletic Warriors & Aspie Avengers

League Adult: West Bromwich Albion Throstles

League Junior: Aston Villa

Best of luck to all of the teams now one step closer to the national final, which is to be held at St. George's Park in April.