Disability football club is what 'players live for'

News imageBBC A group of people wearing matching “NLY Community Sport” jerseys stand together on an outdoor sports pitch, some raising thumbs and arms toward the camera. The scene takes place on a sunny day with a fenced field, trees, and buildings visible in the background. The group is gathered closely in the foreground, suggesting a team or community activity moment.BBC
Selby Disability FC currently has 18 players

"This badge is our team and we are a good team," says Billy, a regular goalscorer at Selby Disability Football Club.

The side, which was formed in 2018, holds training sessions for disabled players who want to play football in a non-competitive setting.

"The sessions are highlight of the week for a lot of the players," explains team manager James Grayson.

His side are attempting to raise £5,000 to help pay for pitch hire and the cost of travel so they can take part in next season's West Riding Ability Counts League against other similar teams.

News imageA person in a cap and navy sports hoodie stands on an outdoor football pitch, speaking while gesturing with one hand. In the background, several people in sportswear walk and handle a football near a small goal on the artificial turf. The scene takes place under a cloudy sky, with fenced surroundings and trees visible around the field.
James Grayson wants his side to be able to play in the league next season

The club last played a game in the league as part of the 2024-25 season but aim to return to the competition when the new season starts in October.

"I've been involved with mainstream football where it is all about winning but the social side is more important," says Grayson.

"[I like coming] because I get to be around my best friend," beams Alex, one of players.

Selby Disability FC is run by NLY Community Sport, a not-for-profit organisation, which Grayson co-founded in 2017 alongside Connor Rollinson.

The organisation runs football sessions for adults and children with disabilities in Pontefract, Selby and Wakefield.

News imageA person in a pink sports bib with the number “11” stands on a bright outdoor football pitch, raising both arms.
Two other participants walk nearby on the artificial turf, with a small goal and fence visible in the background.
The scene is sunny with long shadows, trees, and buildings surrounding the sports area.
Alex attends sessions in Selby every week

Selby Disability FC have also built a large following on social media for their videos of energetic goalscoring celebrations, some of which have more than a million views.

"The key thing about it is making it fun every week," says Grayson.

"It's what they live for," he adds.

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