Spectacular end of season for BridgeAbility

Date published: 14 June 2023

BridgeAbility – part of Bridge Junior Football Club – had a spectacular end of season competition day on 27 May.

The disability and SEN team of 25 players travelled to Leyland with three teams for the end of season finale at the headquarters of Lancashire FA.

With 18 matches played, BridgeAbility won 12 and drew three.

A spokesperson for BridgeAbility said: “BridgeAbility has been led enthusiastically throughout lead coach Garry Smith, and supported by numerous other volunteer coaches assisting him in delivering both training, and competition involvement, on a regular basis.

“There have been four competitions hosted at Lancashire FA throughout this season, BridgeAbility teams travelling each time, supported by the club.

“Their presence at this regional disability football tournament helps to make it the success it clearly is, alongside around 20 other teams and clubs in the region, to provide an enjoyable and competitive tournament.

“A enjoyable and successful end of season finale for all at BridgeAbility.”

BridgeAbility currently runs four open age teams at the club, with around 30 regular participants and volunteers, with players’ ages ranging from teenagers to adults taking part every week.

BridgeAbility take part in monthly matches within the Lancashire FA Ability Counts League.

Players can choose either to just train or play in the competitive league matches which are once a month during the season on Saturdays.

Training sessions take place on a weekly basis on Mondays from 5-6pm at Hopwood Hall College (Middleton campus). In the summer, training takes place at Bridge’s ground in Bamford.

If you’re interested in joining, you’ll need a training kit, trainers, shin-pads and a drink. Subs cost £10 per month, covering: the cost of kit, transport for the away trips and matches and the hire of training facilities.

Any ‘leftover’ funding is being diverted towards developing opportunities for new social events.

Anyone wishing to help as a coach will be offered FA training and mentoring from within the club to fulfil the role.

If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact Garry Smith, BridgeAbility coordinator and lead coach, on: gazzasmiff58@gmail.com or text 07918 176917.

In addition to the Bridge Junior teams and BridgeAbility, Bridge also has teams for girls and women. 

Wildcats provides an opportunity for girls aged five-11 to make friends, have fun and play football in a safe and encouraging atmosphere. Inspired by the younger girls, Bridge also offers recreational football for women who either haven’t played for years, or have never played at all.