Tournament blog

Building bridges

With less than six weeks to go until the opening of the IBSA World Blind Football Championship in Hereford, head coach of the national squad Tony Larkin brings the second of his weekly reports from the England camp

The England Blind Football Squad were in Hereford for training this weekend and are showing why they are ranked fifth in the world and second in Europe. It was a great session and they are looking fit and determined. As well as talking tactics, though, we were talking, too, about what a difference it makes having so much local support – in the run up to the tournament and, crucially, during games. So it’s great so many of you are buying your tickets at thePoint4 or online at www.blind2010.com. It’s just £5 for a day pass, £2 for concessions.

Up at thePoint4 at The Royal National College for the Blind – the venue for this year’s Blind World Cup – it’s busy off the pitch too. The FA , hosts of this Summer’s Championship, are now putting in place stands, a spectator village, marquees and more as it is just four weeks to kick off for what will be the biggest disability football event ever to have been held in the UK, involving 10 of the best teams from around the world.

For many years we have, to many people, been the ‘blind college on the hill’ and while our students have always been welcomed by the community, and the community always welcomed at the college, we are always seeking out new opportunities to work with you.

One of the many great things about this summer’s Blind World Cup is the bridge it is building between The Royal National College for the Blind and the people of Hereford. Dozens of you have signed up to be volunteers during the Championship and are about to embark on training for the big day. Hundreds of children have had a go at the sport during this year’s 2010 workshops and are about to be recruited as player escorts and flag bearers. What’s more, The FA have worked with us to maximise opportunities for local businesses and the community. Asda have funded all our education legacy campaign, and that will continue to make a difference for many many months to come. Sanctuary Housing have helped fund the stand, and local companies (from Yeomans to Hereford Rank Taxis, Ascari Catering to Burgoynes, Castle House to the Starting Gate) are providing transport, catering, marquees and accommodation for the thousands of visitors about to arrive in the city.

Thank you to you all, and I hope this heralds not only an amazing tournament for the summer, but a great and ongoing relationship with the College for many years to come.

Posted by Tony Larkin on 08-07-2010

Top of page »
Back to main Blog page »
Back to Blog Archive page »