Growing in confidence is a journey often filled with challenges and triumphs.
For individuals with disabilities, the path to self-assurance can be even more daunting.
However, volunteering can serve as a transformative experience, providing not only a chance to give back to the community but also a platform to nurture personal growth, and this is where we share Rebecca’s remarkable journey with Barton Inclusive Football Club.
It all started in 2022, when Barton Inclusive FC were successful in achieving a grant from the National Lottery to create a new inclusive women’s team, with a focus on supporting players who are neurodiverse.
Rebecca was one of the teams very first players, inspired after watching the England Lionesses triumph at the UEFA Women’s Euros.
Rebecca lives with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, she describes:
“It causes hypermobility so my joints dislocate more easily as well as feeding problems, so I use a feeding tube.
I also have autism, which affects my social skills and ability to make friends.”
Rebecca soon found belonging at BIFC, and says: “It feels good to be included.”
After training with the team, Rebecca now competes in matches, recently being awarded Player of the Day at a fixture in Hornsea.
After learning about our club’s Teeny Tots sessions, for children from the age of two, Rebecca felt she was ready to begin volunteering within football.
Rebecca says:
“Coaching at Teeny Tots has helped my confidence improve as it enables me to consistently push myself outside of my comfort zone. Coaching on a Saturday has enabled me to develop my social skills which has helped me in all aspects on my life both football and privately.
All the parents on a Saturday morning have been really supportive and encouraging. Especially as someone with an additional need, I have always felt supported and welcome.
My favourite part about coaching the Teeny Tots each week is seeing them grow and develop both their social skills and football skills.”
Rebecca has embraced new challenges, built supportive relationships (including with parents and carers), and BIFC have celebrated her achievements, including when she recently achieved funding for her FA Level One course, and successfully passed her driving test on her first attempt.
Well done Rebecca, we are excited to support you in your future as a volunteer and we wish you the very best of luck as you start on the FA’s coaching pathway.
