Who?
Anyone aged 16+ who loves football, likes getting active, wants to meet new friends, or wants to try something new.
The ability to walk UN-AIDED is needed, as this will allow you to get onto the pitch and play for our team. Unable to do so? Why not give Powerchair FOotball a go?
What?
Our training sessions revolve around enjoyment and improvement. We will run drills so each player can develop individually, bringing these learnings into small-sided games to develop as a team.
Competitively, we play in the GFA Ability Counts Leagues, with 5 teams spanning all 3 divisions meaning everyone can play. The fixtures are usually played 6 times a year, usually in Bristol or Gloucester, where all of the teams get together and play against each other in what we call, Tournaments. These matches then go towards the final league standings, which can be seen by clicking the button below.
For the Bristol “Tournaments”, we put on low cost “Coach Travel” to help get as many people there a possible.
Kit Needed for our Sessions
You need to have appropriate clothing for playing sport, as well as Football Boots (as shown in the picture below) and ideally Shin-Pads/Shin Guards.
Elisa is a valued member of the GBG PAN Mixed Ability Football Development Team. As an autistic player with mobility challenges, Elisa has been part of the Goals Beyond Grass (GBG) community for around three years, consistently showing determination and passion for the game.
For Elisa, GBG represents something simple but powerful: “inclusive and fun.” This sense of belonging is central to her experience, providing a space where she can enjoy football in an environment that welcomes everyone.
The sessions have a meaningful impact on Elisa’s wellbeing. She shares that they “make me feel good,” although she acknowledges that at times they can also feel stressful. This highlights both the excitement and the challenges that come with participating in sport, especially in a dynamic and team-based setting.
When asked about her favourite part of the sessions, Elisa is clear: “the best thing about the session is when we play a match.” Match play gives her the opportunity to fully engage, compete, and enjoy the game she loves.
One of Elisa’s proudest moments came off the pitch. She recalls: “My best story was when I got nominated for an award at presentation evening last season.” This recognition was a significant achievement and reflects her commitment and progress within the team.
Sunday tournaments bring a mix of emotions for Elisa. She describes feeling “nervous and competitive but also exciting,” while also noting that they can sometimes feel “frustrating and unknown.” These experiences show her resilience in facing new challenges and embracing competition.
Football plays an important role in Elisa’s weekly routine and mental wellbeing. She explains that when football isn’t on, she feels stressed, but when she attends sessions, “there’s a positive difference.” This contrast highlights the powerful impact that inclusive sport can have on emotional health.
Interestingly, when asked how sessions could improve, Elisa says she “can’t think of anything that needs improving,” a testament to how much she values the current environment.
Elisa’s journey is a great example of how inclusive football can provide not just physical activity, but confidence, recognition, and a sense of community.