Students from different courses at Middlesbrough College came together to proudly represent the North East at the AOC’s National Pan-Ability Football Tournament.
Hosted at St George’s Park – the home of England’s national teams and a world-renowned training centre – the tournament saw nine Pan-Ability teams from across the country compete to be named winner in the National final. Each team representing a different region after being selected thorough regional competitions.
Captained by Theo Clements-Mogie, who is studying Level 2 Sport, the team competed against players of varying abilities and proudly demonstrated the determination and sportsmanship that Middlesbrough College is known for.
Coaches Damon Hill and Myles Carter supported the team throughout the tournament as they faced strong opposition from colleges across England, including Birmingham Metropolitan (BMet) College, City of Portsmouth College, Lincoln College, Weston College, Barking and Dagenham College, USP College, Blackburn College and Leeds City College.
Callum Hutchinson, studying Level 3 Travel and Tourism, commented: “We’re the best in the North East and Yorkshire, and here to represent the region! We can only do our best, try our hardest and be positive – and that’s what we did today!”
Pan-Ability football is about bringing people of varying needs together. It creates an inclusive space for players with a wide range of disabilities, whether physical, intellectual, sensory or mental health related, to play on the same team. Barriers are removed, with emphasis on getting involved, having fun and enjoying the game, while keeping a sense of friendly competition and working as a team.
Reflecting on the experience, coach Damon Hill said: “Playing in the Pan-Ability National Finals in our first year competing as a team has been such an amazing experience.
“The students have worked so hard to make it to this point, and it’s been brilliant to see them perform on the national stage. The day was fantastic and truly an experience we will never forget!”
Although the team missed out on lifting the trophy, they gained unforgettable memories and valuable experience – and they are already looking forward to returning to the competition next year.
