Down's Syndrome Association

LAUNCHING THE 1ST EVER FOOTBALL TEAM FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WITH DOWN’S SYNDROME

02/06/2006

On Monday 5^th June The Down’s Syndrome Association and Fulham FC are delighted to officially launch its first-ever football team/training programme for young people with Down’s syndrome.

The launch will take place at Fulham FC’s training ground at Motspur Park from 4.30 onwards.

The Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Cllr Mary Reid will be carry out a balloon launch with cheque presentations to the Community Trust on behalf of Fulham FC and the Down’s Syndrome Association.

Head of Fulham FC Community Sports Trust, Simon Morgan said:

‘Fulham FC Community Sports Trust is delighted to be hosting the Down Syndrome Associations Awareness Launch at the club’s training facility.

The Sports Trust’s runs a successful award winning disability programme throughout the year and we are delighted to be able to forge a link with the DSA. This event further signifies Fulham FC’s commitment to providing opportunities for everyone to enjoy sport whilst leading a healthier lifestyle"

Down’s Syndrome Association, Fundraising Manager, Paul Zanon said:

"It gives us great pleasure to be working with Fulham FC Community Sports programme. This new programme gives young people with Down’s syndrome the opportunity to develop not only their football skills but the joy that only team sports can bring"

The team will be displaying their skills with a coaching session and hardest shot competition in the speed nets.

Note: The team will train every Friday at Bishop’s Park, Fulham from 5.30pm, as well as taking part in holiday courses to prefect their ball and team playing skills. The team is open to 11-18 year olds. If you are interested in joining the team contact Alexa Dizon at the DSA on or Susie Williams at Fulham FC on .

DOWN’S SYNDROME ASSOCIATION AWARENESS WEEK

5^TH – 11^TH JUNE 2008

ENDS

For more information about the Down’s Syndrome Association please contact Xanthe Breen on or at

Notes to editors:

The DSA is a national charity that exists to provide information and support for people with Down’s syndrome, their families, carers and those with a professional interest. It also seeks to improve knowledge and understanding and champion the rights of people with Down’s syndrome
In a year, the DSA responds to over 29,000 telephone enquiries from 20,000 members, professionals and the general public, they send out more than 25,000 leaflets and fact-sheets and receive around 11 million hits on the website
The DSA has over 100 local affiliated groups throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland as well as offices in South London, Cardiff and Belfast, plus a team of regional staff supporting families and professionals throughout most of England, Wales and Northern Ireland
The DSA relies almost entirely on voluntary donations to continue operating
The DSA has an annual operating need of approximately £1.9 million