Paralympic goal for top stopper

CHAMPION . . . Michael Weston with his trophies

A TALENTED goalkeeper born with one arm has defied his disability to be named the star of an international football tournament.

Michael Weston (16), of Moorside, was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament while representing Britain in the Far East.

The top-stopper scooped the title as a member of the Great Britain Amputee Football team in the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation (IWAS) World Games.

Staged in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates, the tournament showcased the talents of some of the best disabled sportsmen and women from across the globe.

Michael, of Saffron Drive is studying for a diploma in sports studies at Hopwood Hall College, and his ultimate goal is to take part in the Paralympics.

“If not in football, then in another sport,” explained the former Crompton House School pupil. “I’m not sure which one yet, but it is something I will be looking into.

“I was really excited and grateful to be asked to play for Britain in the World Games, and really appreciated the opportunity.”

Michael was urged by teachers at Crompton House to take part in paralympic trials at Oldham Sports Centre. As a result he was invited to take part in the next round, when he was offered a place with the Great Britain team. He trains with the team once a month.

Michael’s proud grandfather, Martyn Atkinson, highlighted the “heroism and skill” of all players in the squad. He said: “The team represents everything about the British spirit and represents our country at tournaments all over the world.”

Michael, who also plays centre back for Royton Town, was keen to urge other young people with a disability not to let it get in the way of their dreams.

He said: “If you have got the potential, then training will improve your skills. No-one should let a disability stand in their way. If you want to do something — just do it. The World Games show the talent young people with a disability have, and my dream now is to take part in the Paralympics.”