LAST weekend a team representing our Borobility group travelled to Manchester for a tournament.
Played at Manchester United’s Carrington training ground, we were one of just 13 teams from around the country invited to take part in the MUDSA (Manchester United Disabled Supporters Association) Cup 2023.
If you ever wondered what kind of impact these events have on participants and their families, allow us to give you a little insight.
Trish Lough is one of our trusted band of volunteers, often going over and above to ensure everyone is enjoying whatever it is they may be doing – and she makes exceedingly good cakes.
She took time off from her culinary artistry to put down in words just what Saturday meant to her and, with due respect, more importantly the participants. She didn’t have to, she wanted to.
“I wanted to send this email to let you know how fantastic this day was! From the moment the players arrived in the car park, until they were dropped off 12 hours later, they were a credit to Middlesbrough Football Club Foundation!
“We knew this was going to be a long day, and although the weather was beautiful (at one point reaching 30 degree), this in itself brought many challenges. Ensuring the players applied suncream at regular intervals, kept hydrated and stayed in the shade at every opportunity, as well as remaining focused on the football! They did this superbly under the guidance and supervision of Dan and Paul. Every potential risk was covered to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the players.
“The tournament itself was quite competitive, with some really good teams. Middlesbrough were outstanding, again due to the encouragement of Dan (Openshaw) and Paul (Murphy). We reached the final of the Shield, only to be narrowly beaten by Bradford City. The whole team took their defeat well, even complimenting the winners individually.
“I’ve followed the majority of this team for over a year now and the confidence they continue to show is amazing. They have really blossomed, showing skills which include making friends, showing compassion, sportsmanship, and even leadership on the pitch. I think Dan has done a wonderful job, engaging these players to believe in themselves. Long may this continue.”
This came in addition to many comments made on on our social media platforms from parents saying what a great day out their child had enjoyed.
That’s why we do what we do across so many programmes. Not for the nice things people take the time to say, but to make a difference, a positive difference to the lives of as many as we can.
This particular group are blossoming as people and we’re proud of the part we’ve played in the progress so far.
If you want to know more about our Borobility programme, e-mail Dan at Daniel.openshaw@mfcfoundation.co.uk
For now, have a look through the gallery below and then follow this link to have a look at an Instagram reel that was made on the day.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtUnN0fOtA0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
