Football is so much more than ninety minutes on a pitch. It’s about belonging, finding your voice, and discovering that your physical boundaries don’t define your potential.

When my son Ted first joined the Solihull Moors Foundation Ability Counts sessions at five years old, the world was navigating the height of COVID-19. Ted lives with hemiplegia, a form of Cerebral Palsy that affects half of his body. Finding an environment where he was not only accommodated, but truly understood and encouraged, was vital.

Six years later, Ted has just turned 11, and looking back on his journey with Solihull Moors shows how transformative inclusive sport can be.

More Than Just a Game: Confidence, Community, and Community Spirit

Over the last six years, Ted’s weekly sessions with Moors haven’t just developed his footballing skills—they have reshaped his confidence. Through continuous training sessions and local tournaments, he has built lasting friendships with teammates who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of living with a disability.

The inclusive, uplifting culture at Solihull Moors provided Ted with a safe space to test his limits, fall in love with the game, and dream big.

A Spark Lit at the CP Euros

The pivotal moment in Ted’s journey came last year at the CP Euros. Watching elite players with Cerebral Palsy compete at the highest level, and meeting the England national team in person, showed Ted exactly what was possible.

Inspired by seeing athletes like him represent their country, Ted took a huge step: trialling for the England Para-Pathway.

Thanks to the strong foundation he built at Moors, Ted was accepted onto the scheme. Today, he trains at the regional Para-Pathway hub at Aston Villa’s indoor facility, working hard every week toward his ultimate goal: one day putting on the England shirt and representing his country.

A Heartfelt Thanks to Solihull Moors Foundation

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering commitment, care, and belief of everyone involved with the Solihull Moors Foundation.

Special recognition must go to Scott Langford. Scott’s dedication, patience, and ability to see the potential in every child who walks onto the pitch have been instrumental in Ted’s growth, both as a player and as a young boy. Coaches like Scott don’t just teach football; they change lives.

Get Involved: Give Your Child the Chance to Play.

If you are a parent of a child with a physical disability, neurodivergence, or additional needs, know that there is a place where your child can thrive. The Solihull Moors Foundation Ability.

Counts sessions offer an inclusive, supportive, joyful environment where every player can shine.

Ted’s journey started with a single session at five years old. Today, he’s chasing his dream of playing for England.