Over the past three years Stainborough C.C. has forged a partnership with Greenacre School and The Federation of Disability Sports Organisations. The “Sporting Voices” Project is run by the FDSO to enable people with disabilities to have an active involvement in the organisation and running of sporting initiatives.

As part of this project, students with learning disabilities have visited the club on numerous occasions, not only to play cricket, but also to assist the club in various areas of development.

With funding support from the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and the Shawlands Trust, the students were responsible for assisting with the purchase of recycling equipment and additional seating, and also made recommendations to the club regarding improved access for wheelchairs. They also helped with aspects of the 150th Anniversary event against the M.C.C.

Last year the students planned and helped to host the first ever Stainborough C.C. Disability Cricket Festival which involved six local teams taking part in skills sessions followed by a competition. The winning team, Kingstone, qualified as Barnsley’s representatives at the Yorkshire finals held at the Headingley Cricket Ground.

This year will see the third Sporting Voices course at Greenacre School, with a new group of enthusiastic students working on the 2nd Stainborough C.C. Disability Cricket Festival. The event, which has already attracted an increased entry, will be held at the club on Tuesday 14th June. Students are busy planning all aspects of the event including transport, catering, team kit design, medals and trophies.

Information regarding Sporting Voices and disability cricket is available from Fiona Hall, Federation of Disability Sports Organisations

Tel 01924 279305
fhall@fdso.co.uk
www.fdso.co.uk