Sessions are in conjunction with DSActive and Longfleet Youth FC. The essence of DSActive is to provide children and young people with Down syndrome more opportunities to play football in a comfortable and competitive environment.

With most DSActive Football opportunities being delivered by Community Trusts, Longfleet Youth is the first voluntary Community Club across the entire Country to launch regular DSActive football provision.

Rosie Eggleston, Football Development Officer at Dorset FA commented on the success of the project so far:

“Longfleet Youth FC and Dorset FA have run 4 football sessions so far this season. All have been an absolutely fantastic opportunity for young people aged 5+ or adults to have fun and play football”.

Each session is delivered by trained and experienced Longfleet Youth FC Coaches and Football Futures Volunteers who create a friendly and supportive environment for players to get active, play football and meet new people. Through football, the project aims to create a multi-tier learning environment that will improve the participant’s overall physical, social and emotional health. Parents, carers and support workers are welcome to join in the session offering additional support to players where needed.

The monthly sessions take place at Carter Community School.

“So far we have had over 30 young people and adults come to our festivals. Each session focuses on enjoyment and encouraging young people to participate in more physical activity. A big thank you must go to Longfleet Youth FC for all of their hard work in helping to bring these festivals to life”.

Longfleet Youth FC hopes to form a new team within 12 months that will be able to compete in regular matches throughout the course of the year.

Dorset FA would like to thank Carter Community School for kindly letting us use their facilities to grow our new project.

If you are interested in joining our DSActive football programme or for further information, please contact Rosie Eggleston (Football Development Officer) by emailing: Rosie.Eggleston@DorsetFA.com, alternatively by phoning 01202 688273.