The final Visual Impairment (VI) Football session of the year brought participants and funders together to celebrate an incredible programme filled with achievement and enjoyment.
Throughout the programme, the sessions have provided a fun, safe and supportive environment where young people could stay active, build confidence, develop new skills and make lasting friendships. Delivered by The Albion Foundation in partnership with the Your City & Metropolitan Hospitals Charity, with grant funding from the Roper-Hall Eye Foundation, the initiative has created valuable opportunities for children and young people affected by visual impairment to engage in sport and improve their wellbeing.
To mark the conclusion of the academic year, a special celebration evening was held. Every participant received an award in recognition of their commitment, along with a certificate and medal. As part of the celebrations, attendees were treated to an exclusive stadium tour, giving them the opportunity to explore the home of West Bromwich Albion and experience areas of the stadium they may not normally see.
The excitement continued with a surprise visit from Baggie Bird, who joined participants for a fun-filled penalty shootout. The mascot's appearance was a highlight of the evening, bringing plenty of smiles and creating memorable moments for everyone involved. Parents and funders even got involved in the fun, taking part in a blindfolded penalty shootout.
The session was also attended by representatives from our funding partners, who were immensely proud of the progress and achievements demonstrated throughout the programme. They expressed their sincere thanks to all participants and parents for their enthusiasm, dedication and support, which have been instrumental in the success of the project.
Edward Edmead, Head of Business Development at Your City & Metropolitan Hospitals Charity, commented:
"For parents to have somewhere for their children to go, to play sport, to learn, to get involved, to meet others and simply be in a safe environment is so important.
On behalf of the charity, I just want to say a massive thank you to the parents for bringing the young people to these sessions and for their commitment."
Prof. Phil Murray, Chairman of the Roper-Hall Eye Foundation, added:
"The objective is to promote research and education in ophthalmology for the benefit of patients across Birmingham and the West Midlands."
It was a fitting celebration of a fantastic year, recognising the hard work of every participant while showcasing the positive impact that inclusive sporting opportunities can have on young people living with visual impairments.
