Hull & East Riding Powerchair FC Experience
East Riding FA play powerchair football
East Riding FA staff and board members have visited Hull & East Riding Powerchair Football Club to learn more about the only active team participation sport for people who use electric wheelchairs.
Named as the inaugural winners of the East Riding FA All Play Award the club is the region's first & only powerchair football club. Formerly known as East Riding Electric Eels the club was formed in 2012 following two successful taster sessions. Since then, the club has grown significantly with the club now boasting both an Academy and First Team.
Based at the Allam Sports Centre in Hull the club is supported by a dedicated band of volunteers who work incredibly hard to provide opportunities for disabled people to play and enjoy football.
East Riding FA CEO Adam Lowthorpe; “The club were kind enough to invite us down to try powerchair football and it was an incredible experience. We have been working with the club for several years and we are delighted to see how they have progressed.”
Powerchair football is a unique sport that provides opportunities for people with a high level of impairment to access the game of football.
The game is for anyone who uses a powered wheelchair or those who have limited movement in a manual wheelchair. The sport is fast-paced, dynamic and very enjoyable to watch and the unique nature of powerchair football allows all ages, disabilities and both genders to compete together.
East Riding FA Chairman John Suddards commented; “The joy that powerchair football brings to people is so clear to see and it really is as hard as it looks.”
The clubs first team recently gained promotion to the national PTC Therapeutics Premiership with the side set to take on the best teams and players from across the country.
Inclusion Officer Rebecca Bolton added; “Powerchair Football is heavily reliant on volunteers and its testament to the people involved that the club has continued to grow. The skill level and enjoyment factor is extremely high although they invite anyone to attend regardless of their ability.”
The club are always on the look out for new players and volunteers and have recently started advertising work experience placements.
If you would like to find out more about Hull & East Yorkshire Powerchair Football Club and learn how you can get involved, then head over to their website.