Disability footballers earn coaching qualification at Villa Park

Sarah Hayles, George Turner, Jake Hinde and Konrad Skroda joined the Foundation’s delivery staff in the Academy Building to gain a Coaching Disabled Footballers qualification.

The quartet, who all play for the club’s Ability Counts teams, were delighted to be involved on the course and believe it helped them improve as coaches.

George said: “I’ve been learning new skills on the course. I’ve learned how to treat every player fairly, how to get everyone involved with the sessions and what adaptations I need to make for people that need extra attention.”

Come to terms with own disabilities

Sarah added: “I’ve learned a lot from working with the coaches here and it’s my dream job to one day become a coach. Days like today will help me achieve my dream.”

Aston Villa has played a major role in the lives of all four aspiring coaches, with Sarah and George earning their FA Level One Coaching Football qualification fully subsidised through the Supporting Our Own initiative.

George and Jake are also enrolled on the Foundation’s Football and Education programme as they work towards a career in sport.

Being involved with Ability Counts as players first and now as volunteer coaches has helped the group to develop their personal skills and learn how to come to terms with their own disabilities.

Jake said: “Before I started at Ability Counts, I was quite shy and I wouldn’t get involved, but as time’s gone on I’ve become more involved and I’m a lot more confident. I’m more open to people now, too.

“Aston Villa has the best coaches, the best facilities and the best programme that I’ve ever seen. They’re very friendly people and I’d recommend it to anyone.”

Konrad added: “It’s a great environment to be in at Villa, with Nigel Macrow (Disability Manager) especially. He motivates everyone to do well.”

The Aston Villa Foundation’s Ability Counts programme is funded by the PL/BT Sport Fund, enabling the charity to provide sporting opportunities to people with disabilities in the local community.