A KIND-HEARTED fan's donation has paved the way for Colchester United to launch a new Cerebral Palsy (CP) football team.
The new side will represent the U's in competitions, tournaments and regular weekly training sessions from next January thanks to a generous donation from lifelong U's supporter Ashley Hammond, who was born and raised in Colchester.
Mr Hammond is the CEO of the world governing body for CP football, the International Federation of Cerebral Palsy Football.
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He now lives in the United States where he also runs a non-profit, nationwide CP Soccer programme.
He said: “My dream in funding this programme in Colchester is that we can see the Colchester United team compete in the IFPCF Club World Cup next summer in the US.
"Our programme in the US is fee-free and with our donation we wanted make sure that the players in Colchester would also be able to participate at no cost.
"I am hoping that the Colchester public will get behind helping this new team to the States next summer and the chance to compete on the world stage."
The Colchester United Community Foundation (CUCF) hope to see the team competing in the IFCPF Club World Cup in America by next summer.
CUCF Head of Health and Inclusion Ed King said: "We are incredibly thankful to Ashley for his donation, which allows us to launch a CP football team under the Colchester United name.
"From our first conversation, it was clear how deeply Ashley cares for Colchester and its community.
"His passion shines through, and we’re proud to bring his vision to life.
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"Please spread the word about the programme to friends and family.”
CP football is designed for individuals with cerebral palsy or other neurological conditions affecting physical mobility, such as a stroke or traumatic brain injury.
The CP football sessions are open to anyone aged 16 and over, with no restrictions on ability, whether you are trying football for the first time or have experience, all are welcome.
Participants must be ambulant, meaning they can move without aid.
Interested players are asked to fill out an expression of interest form to help the CUCF determine the best days, times and venue for sessions, based on community feedback.
Register your interest here
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