In spring 2024 Falkirk Foundation started our Down’s Syndrome football group. It was recognised that there wasn’t an organised session for children with Down’s Syndrome to come and play football in a safe space, and so we wanted to provide that space
We teamed up with Down’s syndrome Scotland to make sure coaches and staff had specific training to ensure participants received the best possible experience. The group runs on a Monday between 4:30-5:30 on the Falkirk stadium main pitch. Having the sessions on the main pitch gives the participants a sense of belonging to a club at the heart of the local community and allows the participants to play on the same pitch as some of their idols.
The sessions provide more than the obvious footballing benefits. Co-ordination and balance tasks are meticulously planned out each week, as well as tasks that improve the participant’s spatial awareness. Through the training provided by Down’s Syndrome Scotland, coaches were given the tools to create sessions which will specifically enhance activity for children with Down’s Syndrome.
Last year, our Down’s Syndrome Football Group won the Prestigious SFA best Football For All Programme on a Regional and National Level, which is testament to the wonderful characters, and vibrant personalities in this amazing group.
