Leicestershire & Rutland CFA recently hosted an FA England Talent Day for players aged 5 to 16 that have one of the following impairments; Deaf, Partially Sighted, Cerebral Palsy or have an Amputation.

England Talent days are designed to signpost players to the best available opportunities, this can be within mainstream, inclusive or within the talent pathway.

The day saw all the players and their parents being talked through the local provision and talent pathway, which was then followed with talks from our special guests.

An FA role model, Darren Harris was present to talk about his journey through football and what is needed to make that step up and have the mind set required. Darren is a current member of the England (and GB) Blind Squad, and has 154 England Caps.

The players also took part in practical sessions that were under taken by the Leicestershire & Rutland CFA coaches.

Philippa Bass, Disability Football Development Officer for Leicestershire & Rutland CFA said, "it’s a great opportunity for players to start their journey and to hear from those within the talent programme gives all involved a great experience"

Also present was Ceara Toal, who plays for local team Loughborough Foxes and the England Deaf Women’s squad, to give a local angle on her journey.

If you would like to know more about Disability Football within Leicestershire or the FA Disability Pathway, please contact Philippa.Bass@LeicestershireFA.com