Swans mark World Down Syndrome Day

Matt Grimes, Courtney Baker-Richardson and club ambassador Leon Britton made a surprise visit to the Community Trust's Down Syndrome football session ahead of World Down Syndrome Day.

The Community Trust’s weekly inclusion projects allow those in the local area affected by Down Syndrome to socialise and play the sport they love together.

Viv Hall, grandfather to Christopher, says the events are extremely popular with the participants.

“Christopher enjoys very much. He looks forward to it every Tuesday. It’s fabulous for him, it keeps him fit as well," he said.

Midfielder Grimes, who attended the session with team-mate Baker-Richardson, feels the Trust’s initiative is essential in raising awareness.

“I think this is a brilliant way to raise awareness. Swansea is one big family, it’s not just a football club, it’s a city," he said.

“We are in a very fortunate position as a football club, so I think anything we can give back is brilliant. This is just one of the many ways that we are giving back to the community and you can see how happy it makes people."

One of the coaches who oversees the sessions is Richard Harris, who was delighted to see the players attend the event.

“It was great to have the players and Leon [Britton] here. The lads get a bounce from it. When they see Matt Grimes make a pass they want to copy that, or when Courtney Baker-Richardson takes a touch with his chest they want to copy that, too," he said.

“They want to be like them. For them to have the players here, it’s fantastic."

With World Down Syndrome Day being celebrated across the globe today, the Swans are proud to offer sessions that encourage healthy lifestyles for those whose lives are impacted by the condition.

For more information on our Down Syndrome football sessions, email Tom Williams on thomas@scfccommunitytrust.co.uk.