TCIFA Proudly Supports Youth Football That Empowers Children With Special Needs And Disabilities
There are many children living with special needs in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Whether diagnosed with learning, emotional, or behavioral difficulties (such as Down Syndrome, Autism, ADHD, etc.), or physical disabilities (such as cerebral palsy), the majority of special needs children are not actively involved in sports. We are reminded that everyone should be given the opportunity to participate in sports regardless of his or her gender, age, race, color, religion, socio-economic status, or disability. The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) emphasizes the need to end discrimination and drive positive change and in that regard, with Ava Robertson and Bertha Lee Belle at its helm, recently introduced a football program geared specifically towards children with Special Needs.
Technical Director Andrew Edwards commented, "The TCIFA has the mandate to develop and spread football for ALL throughout all the islands of the TCI and we are extremely proud that we are now, finally, providing access to the game for the kids of our Special Needs community. It is a very exciting time for the TCIFA that we are able to be instrumental in adding value to the lives of these children, providing equal access and opportunity for the fulfillment of dreams and life goals.
There’s a reason why football is called “The Beautiful Game.” The Special Needs Programme serves to enrich the lives of the children, coaches, and partners who participate. No one knows this better than Coach Ava Robertson who has served as a longtime volunteer and player at the TCIFA, and who is a proud mother of a special needs child. Joining her in leading the Special Needs Programme is Coach Bertha Lee Belle, manager of Net Rockers FC.
The programme is designed to bring the opportunity of learning and playing soccer to any boy or girl and incorporates life skills. The focus is to highlight each and every player’s abilities rather than disabilities, and provide an environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Both Coaches are present to conduct half-hour sessions giving special attention to one child or two children at a time. The sessions are held at the TCIFA National Academy turf field on Saturdays, beginning at 4:00 pm.
The methods of training are subject to monthly evaluation and review, with the intent to host a football festival showcasing the skills players have learnt during the course. The Special Needs Programme depicts, in particular, the diversity of our players and it promotes the message that all are welcome, fostering a more inclusive Turks and Caicos Islands.
