Brighton & Hove Albion fans can watch three of Albion in the Community’s disability-specific national league teams in action at the American Express Community Stadium next week.
AITC runs 18 teams for players with a disability, including four who compete under the Brighton & Hove Albion banner in national leagues.
Three of those sides will be in action at the Amex next Thursday afternoon, and Seagulls fans are being encouraged to go along and show their support.
Brighton & Hove Albion Amputee FC will play Arsenal’s amputee team at 2pm, with Brighton & Hove Albion Cerebral Palsy FC playing Southampton on the next pitch at 2.30pm. Brighton & Hove Albion Deaf FC will then play a team made up of players from AITC’s disability development squad from 3pm.
The friendly matches are part of an end of season celebration of AITC’s disability work, and players from across the charity’s 30-plus regular sessions will also be given the chance to play on the Amex pitch throughout the afternoon, including players from its fortnightly session for players with Down’s syndrome.
Entry to the event is free, although fans are asked to let AITC know in advance if they plan on attending by emailing: info@albioninthecommunity.org.uk.
Paul Brackley, AITC’s disability manager, said, “This is a fantastic chance for our players to play on the Amex pitch and something I know they are really looking forward to.
“It is also a great opportunity for fans to come and see our national league teams in action and learn more about the work we are doing across Sussex.
“Unfortunately Brighton & Hove Albion Powerchair FC are unable to play on grass, but some of the team will be joining us on the day to celebrate their achievements during their 2018/19 national and regional league campaigns.”
AITC also plans to host a powerchair fixture at the nearby University of Brighton in July, meaning Albion fans will get the chance to support the powerchair team this summer.
More than 500 people with a disability have regularly attended AITC’s football sessions during the 2018/19 season and AITC is keen to top that number next season.
For more information on the charity’s sessions, email: disability@albioninthecommunity.org.uk.