Wheelchair football

If you live with a disability, it shouldn’t be a barrier to playing the beautiful game. Unfortunately, society just isn’t set up to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities. And a chronic lack of investment limits opportunities to get involved. 

That said, para football is on the rise. An FA initiative along with a rise in the number of playing opportunities across the UK has seen participation levels rise in recent years. 

This is a great time to take up para football – despite the fact that finding local clubs and associations is a lottery. If you’re weighing things up and researching para football, this article will provide you with a very useful starting point. 

What Categories of Para Football Exist in the UK?

For a full list of the para football categories currently available in the UK, head to the official Para Football website. Here are a few of the most popular. 

Amputee Football

Specifically for players with limb loss. Players typically use crutches and follow modified rules regarding field size and player numbers.

Blind and Visually Impaired (VI) Football

Designed for players with visual impairments, this format uses a ball that emits sound and features smaller fields.

Cerebral Palsy Football (7-a-Side)

Tailored for players with cerebral palsy, featuring smaller pitches and modified rules for throw-ins and offsides.

Powerchair Football

For players who use powerchairs, this variation involves modified powerchairs and smaller playing fields, with specific rules on contact and gameplay.

Deaf Football

This format aligns closely with standard football, but visual cues replace auditory ones, and sign language is commonly used for communication.

Walking Football

Aimed at older players and those with mobility issues, this version prohibits running to promote participation without the risk of injury.

Who Is Eligible to Play Para Football? 

The eligibility criteria for para football vary based on the specific format of the game, but generally, players must meet the following requirements:

Classification

All players must be classified according to their impairment. This classification ensures that participants meet minimum impairment criteria relevant to the specific form of para football they wish to play, such as cerebral palsy, visual impairments, or hearing impairments.

Age Requirements

Players typically must be of a certain age to participate, which may vary depending on the league or organisation. For example, youth leagues often have several different age brackets.

Skill Level

Players are encouraged to possess the necessary skills to compete effectively in para football. This might involve training and development opportunities to improve their abilities.

Physical and Medical Criteria

Depending on the specific category (e.g., blind football, powerchair football), players may need to demonstrate specific physical or medical criteria related to their impairment.

What Equipment Is Needed to Play Para Football? 

The essence of para football is the same as the traditional game. Get the ball in the opposition’s net with your feet. Of course, a range of adaptations are required to accommodate disabilities, including the use of various forms of football equipment. 

Footballs

Blind Football

A sound-emitting football contains a sound system to help visually impaired players locate it during play.

Cerebral Palsy Football

A lightweight football is designed to be easier to manage, facilitating better control for players with varying abilities.

Amputee Football

The same size as used in traditional football, typically a size 5 ball – used in the professional game.

Powerchair Football

A specialised ball designed for use with powerchairs, ensuring it can withstand play while accommodating the unique dynamics of the game.

Walking Football

Typically, a size 5 ball is used in a similar way to traditional football, but the game is played at a slower pace to accommodate players.

Mobility Aids

In powerchair football, specially designed powerchairs are critical. These chairs are tailored to the player’s needs, allowing them to manoeuvre effectively on the pitch. For amputee football, crutches may also be used to aid mobility and balance during play, ensuring that athletes can participate actively.

Protective Gear

Safety is paramount in para football, necessitating the use of protective gear. This includes helmets to protect the head, shin guards to shield the legs, and other specialised equipment designed for different categories of para football. Each piece of protective gear is crucial in reducing the risk of injury while enabling competitive play.

Communication Tools

Effective communication is vital, especially in deaf football. To facilitate this, various tools are employed, such as visual aids and hand signals. Additionally, having extra referees can ensure that the game is fair and that all players can understand the rules and communicate effectively during matches.

How to Get Involved in Para Football

There are several opportunities to play para football in the UK, but access to them is something of a postcode lottery. Here are three proven routes into the game: 

Clubs and Community Programs

Many football clubs across the UK have established para football sessions and programs. These initiatives cater to individuals with various disabilities, providing an inclusive environment to enjoy the sport. Engaging with local clubs can be a great way to meet new people and participate in the beautiful game.

Governing Bodies and Initiatives

The Scottish FA and The FA in England have developed dedicated programs for para football. They promote pathways for individuals to get involved through local leagues, clubs, and events, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to play and excel in football, regardless of their ability. You’ll also find a list of participating clubs and associations on the Para Football website. 

Volunteer Opportunities

There are many roles available for those who wish to support para football, including coaching, refereeing, and providing administrative assistance for local events. Volunteers play a crucial role in enhancing the experience for players and ensuring that events run smoothly.

Start Reaching Out

Even if you’re not sure about playing para football in the UK, what harm can it do to reach out to the various organisations responsible for it to learn more about what it entails? Consider a visit or a quick try-out to see if it’s something you’d like to persist with. If it is, you’ll get to meet new friends and experience the thrill only the beautiful game can deliver.