For many of the players, it was their first organised football match. The children attend Beyond The Game SEND Friendly Coaching Academy in Failsworth, which took part through its work with Oldham Athletic Community Trust.
Marc Jackson, founder and head coach of Beyond The Game, said: “Seeing the children take part in their first league outing was a proud moment for our whole community. Every player contributed. Scoring our first goal was wonderful, but seeing them support each other and enjoy the experience meant even more.”
Beyond The Game runs small football sessions for children from around age three into their teenage years. The sessions are designed for young people who may find conventional football settings difficult to access. A formal diagnosis is not required.
Families can find out more or enquire about sessions.
