The SEN Schools League held a fantastic Finals Day at Ruislip Goals on Wednesday 23rd April 2008.
After an early threat of wet weather school teams from Woodfield, Hay Lane, Chantry and Shaftesbury enjoyed glorious sunshine, which they matched with some excellent football. It was the latter two teams that met in the final, Shaftesbury coming out on top 3-2 in a close encounter. The win gives Shaftesbury the opportunity to represent Middlesex in the London Ability Counts Football Festival.
The SEN League offers 6-a-side football for Special Schools in the region and has expanded to cater for girls and SLD pupils, in addition to the Upper and Lower age-group MLD divisions.
Participants have benefited greatly this season from a partnership between Middlesex FA and Goals Soccer Centre, based in South Ruislip, where the small-sided pitches and changing facilities are offered free of charge. This gives the teams the opportunity to play on state-of-the-art artificial grass surfaces.
Speaking about the conclusion of the league’s second season, Craig Nicholson, Community Sports Coach, commented: ‘The quality has been exceptional and there’s been an excellent spirit all year. The players clearly enjoy it, which we can see from the smiles on their faces.’ With reference to the league’s development, Nicholson added: ‘This really helps to put disability football on the map within the County.’
The league is set to return in October for its third season. During the interim period Middlesex County FA is aiming to organise a Charter Standard tournament for U14 boys’ teams from the league.
To find out more about the SEN Schools League please contact Steeven Sharpe, Football Development Officer for People with Disabilities, on 020 8515 6901 or click here: