Pushing Back Against Parkinson’s: Eric’s Journey with Shrewsbury Town Foundation

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Eric first became involved with the Shrewsbury Town Foundation after attending a Parkinson’s branch meeting in Shrewsbury, where he heard about Exercise on Referral. It was through this programme that he was able to take part in regular exercise sessions, specifically tailored for each person’s own needs, giving him support with his Parkinson’s.

Since joining the programme, Eric has become a regular participant in a range of activities, from boxing and circuit training to gym work and cycling. He praises the Foundation’s team for their inclusive approach, making each session adaptable for everyone, regardless of their abilities.

For Eric, these sessions have made a tremendous difference.

Attending three walking football sessions and a Parkinson’s-specific exercise class each week has improved his strength, balance, coordination, and mobility.

Beyond the physical benefits, Eric values the social aspect, having formed lasting friendships with others in the group. “I would be completely lost without it,” he says, reflecting on the profound impact these programmes have had on his life.

Eric is also active in sessions run by Shrewsbury’s Parkinson’s UK branch, finding the variety essential in keeping him engaged.

His message to anyone considering joining? “Give it a go! Exercise is just as important as medication. Push back against Parkinson’s—you won’t regret it!”.

Foundation of Light’s Neurological Walking Football participants united by strength

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The Foundation of Light’s Neurological Walking Football provision started as a weekly one-hour football session but it soon became the hub for those with neurological conditions to unite together.

Now hosting around 15 regular attendees, the team call themsleves the North East Parkies United with participants travelling from around the North-East to be part of it.

“After coming along for a session, I immediately loved the community spirt and physical activity,” said participant Adrian Wrigley who travels from Billingham to Sunderland weekly to take part.

“I was formally diagnosed with Parkinson’s four years ago and I have heavy tremors on my left-hand side and starting on the right.

“I’ve actually had some symptoms for the last ten years or so undiagnosed.

“It’s progressing, but I’m trying to stay as active and positive as possible. In keeping your body moving and the neurological network active, it can help slow the decline.

“There’s so many positive benefits to these sessions, I’ve never looked back really.”

Following the hour of football games and drills, participants head to the Beacon of Light café to socialise.

Adrian also enjoys this aspect of the programme, adding: “We always have a coffee and what becomes a bit of a whinge together.

“We match up our symptoms, support networks, and talk about activities going on.

“The social aspects, keeping your mental wellbeing, just having a chat and cracking on with the team, is really important.

“Often with Parkinson’s, your voice is a muscle that if you don’t use it, you lose it.”

“We have now formed a team, North East Parkies United,” Adrian explained about the upcoming competition.

“The ‘United’ is because we all come from different teams, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Sunderland, and we even allow Hartlepool.”

The North East Parkies United team will head to St. George’s Park on Saturday 19 April to compete together for the first time.

Paul Campbell was one of the early members of the programme at the beginning of 2022.

“I didn’t envisage this at all when I first came,” he said on the development of the group.

“I’m very proud of everyone who comes along, because they’ve all contributed. We help each other out, and it has been fantastic to now form an official team.”

Paul, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2010, has been managing his condition by keeping active through Foundation of Light’s Neurological Walking Football.

“It makes a hell of a difference,” he added.

“For one thing, it just takes your mind off everything, you forget that you have Parkinson’s when you are on the pitch.

“It’s a great group of people. I look forward to spending time with them every Tuesday and I’m looking forward to competing together.”

 

Rachel Brown-Finnis inspires future female footballers at Burnley FC Women’s juniors event

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The Leisure Box was abuzz with excitement as former England goalkeeper, Rachel Brown-Finnis, paid a special visit to the BFC Women’s Juniors football teams. Rachel was introduced to players and ‘future talent’ in the female football pathway of Burnley FC in the Community.

Rachel, who hails from Burnley and went to Nelson & Colne College, has been a lifelong supporter of the club and brought along some of her cherished football memorabilia to show. Among the items were her first-ever goalkeeper shirt and several of the England caps she received during her tenure. This was a rare and amazing opportunity for the players to see (and even touch!) the artifacts, providing a tangible connection to her journey and amazing achievements in the sport. She spoke about her career history and offered a glimpse into the life of a professional footballer.

“To be able to show of my love of football, to share some of it, the highs and the lows with those girls, has been a real privilege.”

Players were given the opportunity to ask Rachel questions, like who her childhood inspirations were (goalkeeper legend Peter Schmeichel), and later got involved in a quick-fire competition, demonstrating how to handle pressure both on and off the pitch!

Rachel also took the time to observe the training sessions for the U10s, U12s, U14s, and U16s teams; her presence on the sidelines gave the players the opportunity to showcase their skills. After watching several sessions, she was able to provide valuable feedback and encouragement to the young players.

When asked about the changes and progress made to the Women’s game, Rachel said, “It’s so heartwarming knowing that 30 years ago when I was a little kid, there was very limited opportunity… now you’re in the “hotbed” of the places to be in the country!”

Recently announced as a Community Ambassador for the EFL, when asked about her role Rachel spoke of the immense power football can have in communities:

“The power of football is sometimes immeasurable, sometimes measurable. But it empowers. It draws strength in people when certain people don’t think that they’ve got that strength. … football can really make that significant difference.

When I got the opportunity to become the Community Ambassador for the EFL…having been immersed in those programmes at work through Everton, it was something I was really passionate to get started on, to see the breadth and depth the programmes across the country, from all 72 Football League clubs”

Becky Clough, Female Football Development Officer at Burnley FC in the Community, reflected on the event and the importance of role models like Rachel, “It’s been a great evening and a privilege to have Rachel Brown Finnis here at The Leisure Box…It’s been an amazing experience just to listen to her story, get to know her as a person and the passion that she has… it’s also been great inspiration for the girls….it’s so empowering!”

A Celebration of the Women on our USW Degree Programme

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There are now over 100 women on our University of South Wales degree programmes who are studying at a Football Club to become the next generation of sports coaches and work in community sport. On our football and sport coaching courses students learn about children and youth coaching, sports coaching, football development, social inclusion and sports management. Whilst our Sports and Business Management degree is for students who are looking for a career in sports business and management.  All students study whilst gaining invaluable practical experience working at a Football Club

On International Women’s Day, here are a few of our female students who are studying at Football Clubs around the Country and are already making a difference in their community.

Carys Tilley​
Cardiff City FC Foundation

As a student on the Sports Business & Management course, Carys has embraced the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in event coordination with Cardiff City FC Community Foundation. Through events like the Premier League Girls Kicks Celebration, Strategy Launch, and EFL Week of Action, she has gained insight into the planning, media engagement, and communication that bring events to life. From learning how to create promotional materials to capturing live event content, Carys has developed key skills that will support her ambition to pursue a career in marketing and communications. 

Meya, Mia & Erin​
Albion Foundation

Meya, Mia, and Erin are the first-ever female students to pursue a degree with the Albion Foundation, marking a significant milestone in Albion’s programme. Mia and Erin, who both transitioned from Albion’s Post 16 programme, showcase the success of our pathway development. All three are actively engaged in the community, delivering a variety of sessions while also contributing to girls-only initiatives like Girls Kicks, Girls Development Centre, and the WBA Girls Academy. Throughout their journey, the girls have developed essential skills, particularly in building relationships. This has included fostering confidence, communication, and engagement with participants, colleagues, and external partners, demonstrating their growth as role models within their communities.

Macy Lunn​
Barnsley FC Community Trust

Macy has advanced through the Barnsley’s Foundation Degree in Community Football Coaching and Development and is now finishing her BSc Top Up in Football Coaching and Administration. Alongside her academic pursuits, she has secured paid employment at the Trust, where she coaches in the Football and Education program and provides classroom support. Previously, Macy played for Barnsley FC Women’s first team, and this season, she reached the second round of the Women’s FA Cup with Handsworth Ladies. Looking ahead, Macy has applied for her PGCE, aiming to pursue a career in teaching.

Aimee Parfitt​
(Newport) County in the Community

Beginning her journey as a volunteer at Newport County’s soccer schools, Aimee has spent the last 4 years developing her skillset through the soccer schools and term time delivery local schools, where she has gone from strength to strength. The USW degree programme in Sports Coaching & Development has allowed Aimee to develop and improve her coaching practice even further by providing a platform to plan, organise and deliver sessions more effectively, propelling her forward to become one of our most valued members of delivery staff at County in the Community. Because of this, Aimee was put forward to be one of two coaches featured in Sport Wales’s upcoming ‘Foundations Framework’, which will feature videos of Aimee demonstrating how to coach an effective multi-skills session.

Grace Evans​
Cardiff City Foundation

Grace, a dedicated individual with a passion for football.  Her hard work and commitment paid off when she became a paid member of Community Foundation staff, allowing her to carry out football coaching in local primary schools and Cardiff City FC Soccer Schools. Grace also joined the coaching team at the Football Club’s Advanced Development Centres (ADC), showcasing her growing expertise and reputation in the industry. She has since become a highly respected coach, aiming to break into Academy football.​

Grace also expertly hosted City’s Annual Impact celebration event, interviewing beneficiaries in front of stakeholders, guests and funders. Her journey with the Foundation is a perfect example of how dedication can transform passion into a career, benefiting both her personal development and the community around her.

Molly Green​
Bristol City

Molly’s has made outstanding contributions, both academically and within the community. She has shown incredible dedication to the pan-disability sessions she volunteers on and has made a meaningful impact through her volunteering at an SEN school. Alongside this, Molly consistently achieves high grades, demonstrating her strong academic abilities and commitment to excellence. Her passion for inclusion, combined with her academic success, makes her a truly inspiring individual.

Chelsea Hopkins​
Fleetwood Town Community Trust

Chelsea is one of Fleetwood’s first-year students and has adapted amazingly well to the degree programme. She has worked for the community trust for the last two years and currently supports the local community across a range of programmes including PL Kicks, birthday parties, sports camps and PESS sessions. Chelsea’s confidence as a coach has significantly improved this year and she is set to develop her experience further through coaching in America over summer with Challenger Sport.

Megan Hammond​
Sheffield Wednesday FC Community Programme

Megan has made an incredible impact over the past three years, playing an effective part in delivering the community programme with SWFC. Her contributions have ranged from supporting as a teaching assistant on the BTEC program to assisting with the AP provision and leading summer camps.​

Her dedication and passion were recently recognised when she was honoured as ‘Young Volunteer of the Year’ for her coaching work with Sheffield Wednesday Ladies U12s. Looking ahead, Megan is expanding her horizons even further by applying to coach in Chicago during the summer of 2025, eager to continue her growth and development both personally and professionally.

Farrah Hoyle​
Burton Albion Community Trust

Beyond the pitch, Farrah continues to make an impact. She is now a valued member of the Burton Albion Community Trust team, working alongside her full-time studies in Community Football Coaching and Development at USW. Always striving for excellence, Farrah embodies dedication, resilience, and the spirit of Burton Albion.  Her journey is a testament to hard work, ambition, and the opportunities available through the club’s development pathway. 

Libby Henderson​
Middlesbrough F.C Foundation​

Libby takes part Boro’s wake up shake up sessions taking a pivotal role leading sessions and ensuring her fellow students are engaged. She attends placement in our local primary schools taking her learning from the classroom into real life situations where she inspires young children to engage in sport. Libby is an asset to the Charity and a real inspiration to those around here. 

Honey Greaves​
Tigers Trust (Hull City)

Honey fully immerses herself into the modules and the practical aspects of the course. Being female in this line of work can create barriers and stigma but Honey is proving that females have just as much potential as male coaches. Last year, the opportunity arose for Honey and other students to spend a month in Italy over the summer working on camps with an array of age groups. Here she demonstrated great independence, strong leadership skills and developed as a coach by enhancing her overall skillset. ​

Honey demonstrates high levels of commitment and knowledge of the course, particularly in Sports Science. She is focused and committed, always contributing to group discussion with insightful and knowledgeable opinions.  Honey is a positive role model and a true inspiration to others.

Shannon Pack​
Fleetwood Town Community Trust

Shannon, a driven first-year student, is an experienced, UEFA C qualified football coach who excels both academically and on the field. Throughout her BTEC and degree studies, she has consistently achieved outstanding grades, all while balancing the demands of coaching multiple age groups for a local team in Blackpool.​

Beyond her coaching skills, Shannon plays a pivotal role in mentoring her players, inspiring them to grow and succeed, while always leading by example as a positive role model. Her dedication to both her studies and her team is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on their community.

Find out more about the degree here.

Training Ground with Leyton Orient Trust helps Ethan ‘find his purpose.’

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Prior to enrolling on the Training Ground programme with Leyton Orient Trust, Ethan faced numerous difficulties including mental health and a lack of opportunity.

Ethan experienced low motivation and confidence which left him struggling to find his why in every day. This led him to quit playing football, the one thing Ethan was deeply passionate about.

However, the Training Ground programme gave him the support, skills and confidence to feel more at ease with his chances of going into employment once he has finished his studies.

EFL in the Community’s Training Ground programme is currently available to those aged 16-24 living within the Greater London Authority area and is an employability programme designed to support those seeking employment or further training.  The Training Ground programme offers small groups the chance to receive one to one mentoring, participate in group workshops on topics such as life skills and money management, undertake work experience or volunteering in a range of contexts, to develop employability skills, and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

Throughout the course Ethan actively engaged with specific activities being a highlight including volunteering with coaches and the CV workshop.

Since completing the course, Ethan has seen a remarkable shift in his life. He now studies at college on a course he loves and can manage his mental health. As well as this, Ethan is now back and enjoying football once more, whilst actively looking for a part time job.

Ethan states: “I have found purpose in my life.”

Bailey, Thomas and Harrison’s journey from BTEC to employment at Rotherham Community Trust

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Bailey Finney, Thomas Burden, and Harrison Spiller are just some examples of the incredible progression opportunities available at Rotherham United Sports College. Having started their journey on the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma, they have successfully progressed into Higher Education, studying a Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching & Development in parntership with the University of South Wales.

The University of South Wales allows students to gain practical experience in their desired nature of work, whilst allowing for a blended learning approach where students have both face-to face and online learning. The courses which are hosted at your local football club has a huge emphasis on gaining real world learning through placements with students only having to attend the University for short residential periods.

Throughout their studies, Bailey, Thomas, and Harrison have developed an in-depth understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a sports coach. They have gained valuable experience in planning, delivering, and reviewing coaching sessions, building both their knowledge and practical skillsets.

Their hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. All three students have recently secured casual employment with Rotherham United Community Trust, working across the Football Development and Schools & Sports Participation teams.

So far, their roles have included:

  • Assisting with full-day school tournaments at Sheffield Hallam Sports Park.
  • Supporting the Boys Emerging Talent Centre.
  • Specialising in coaching roles, such as Harrison’s work as a goalkeeper coach for Rotherham United Sports College football teams.

As they continue to learn and develop, they will have the opportunity to gain additional qualifications and hours, further enhancing their career prospects within the Trust.

James Mahoney, Education Manager at Rotherham United Sports College, praised the students’ efforts:

“Tom, Harrison, and Bailey have earned this opportunity through their hard work and volunteering. They join a growing number of our learners who have successfully secured employment while studying with us, showcasing the progression opportunities for our students.”

Bailey, Thomas, and Harrison’s journey highlights the strong link between education and employment at Rotherham United Sports College. By providing students with hands-on experience and clear career pathways, the College equips them with the tools to succeed both in their studies and in the workplace.

AFC Wimbledon Foundation helps Dons fan Ben turn his dreams into reality.

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Football and AFC Wimbledon mad, Ben, spends a lot of his time following his beloved Club and analysing their matches. This passion, devotion and knowledge of the game means Ben dreams of becoming a football coach one day.

However, he was unsure how he would turn this enthusiasm into realistic targets and goals to enable him to build his skills and confidence in coaching.

Ben enrolled on the Training Ground programme at his Club, to seek advice and guidance.

EFL in the Community’s Training Ground programme is currently available to those aged 16-24 living within the Greater London Authority area and is an employability programme designed to support those seeking employment or further training.  The Training Ground programme offers small groups the chance to receive one to one mentoring, participate in group workshops on topics such as life skills and money management, undertake work experience or volunteering in a range of contexts, to develop employability skills, and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

Initially, Ben felt uncertain about how to navigate his path into coaching; he struggled with setting specific goals. The programme offered him valuable resources and support, helping him gain confidence in his abilities.

Over the course of the programme, Ben’s confidence grew significantly as he learnt to set and achieve weekly goals; this structured approach has allowed him to make visible progress in his coaching journey.

Whilst on the Training Ground programme Ben completed the FA Playmaker course supported by BT which is aimed at providing skills, guidance and tips so anyone can help create safe, fun, and inclusive football. As well as this, he also completed his FA Induction to Football, marking another important step forward in his development as a coach.

Ben explained: “Football is my passion. The opportunity to participate in the Training Ground programme at AFC Wimbledon was like a dream come true. It has helped me to be in the place where I fit and perform best. At the start of the programme, I was unsure if I would receive help to pursue my dream of becoming a coach, as the weeks went on, everything started to change. Each week I set small goals with my mentor, and I can see real results.”

With Ben’s love for the game and his determination to continually improve, he has begun paving the way for a successful career in the sport he loves.

How the CARE programme with Notts County Foundation helped Jean live a quality life.

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Sadly, Jean recently passed away after her battle with cancer but the CARE programme at Notts County Foundation ensured she was able to live a high quality, positive life despite her cancer diagnosis.

The Cancer and Rehabilitation Exercise (CARE) programme is a group-based exercise initiative for any individual at any stage of their cancer recovery or treatment. From pre-treatment preparation through with and beyond cancer, the CARE programme is there for any individual to enjoy their exercise alongside a likeminded group of individuals.

Prior to her passing, she spoke about her story in hope that she could help and support others.

“Before I got diagnosed with my cancer I was really outgoing and constantly on the move and never spent a full day at home. The day I got told,  my world shut down and I just didn’t know what to do or how to go about my life. I began my journey after my operation and started with a group at Nottingham City Hospital Prehab unit which was called ‘Prehab 2 Rehab’ where I met Lisa, Josh and Tom. I did 4 sessions of exercise which some of the movements I didn’t know I could do or was allowed to do. I really enjoyed the group and heard the next step was to join CARE.

My first session on CARE was an eye opener! I couldn’t believe the amount of people that attend and also how friendly, and wonderful the people are in the group. It helped me knowing Tom and Lisa before attending my first session. During my 12 weeks I have built up my strength to help me with my housework and my family can’t believe how easily I can get around. Not only has the group helped with my balance, strength and endurance it has helped build my confidence back up to where I was before my diagnosis.

From CARE I had the confidence to go on the CARE summer outing on my own knowing that people from the group were going to be there. I still attend CARE as I have finished my 12 weeks, and I feel now nothing is holding me back and I can do what I want to do with my friends and family and this is down to me attending CARE and learning to trust my body and know my new limits.”

 

Huddersfield Town walking football sessions provides Dave with an outlet post cancer diagnosis

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In 2021, Dave was diagnosed with stage 3/4 bowel cancer. After consultation at the Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, Dave had most of his bowel system removed and thought he was in the clear.

After six months of recuperation, Dave felt confident enough to get back involved in the Huddersfield Town Foundation walking football sessions. He reguarly attended both sessions every week and felt it was improving his physical and mental health.

Unfortunately, in January 2023 after a regular check, cancer was found again in his right lung and Dave had to have 50% of his lung removed in July 2023. With encouragement from family and friends, Dave was determined to get back to the sessions he loved at Huddersfield Town.

Sue Bretton (Dave’s Wife) said: “Dave benefits from the exercise which he needs, but he also really benefits from being around the other chaps, because men don’t always talk, but in a session like this they can. They help each other and that helps those of us who live with them. Dave loves to come down and without the football Dave wouldn’t have anything activity wise to look forward to every week, but this is a place where Dave doesn’t have to put on a show for anyone – he can be himself and get the most he can out of it.”

 

Neil has been on an incredible and moving journey with Active Recovery Derby County Community Trust.

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When Debry Coutny Community Trust were first introduced to Neil, he was supporting his wife who had been diagnosed with stage four cancer. Six months later, Neil was given his own stage four diagnosis of prostate cancer but was already aware of the support and programme in place.

It became clear that Neil was really benefiting from having people around him. This was key in helping him cope after his wife sadly passed away.

Neil said: “Lee was one of the first members of staff I spoke to. When my wife died, he put his arm around me and told me he will always be there to help me with anything, even just someone to talk to.”

Neil became more committed to the programme and isn’t shy about trying new things. He initially started off with the walking group, before trying his hand at the gym, Fit Therapy, aquarobics and ‘Hub not a Pub’ – an evening social group. In this time, Neil has got to know several of the staff. He appreciates all their efforts:

“Hannah is always supportive. Claire is bubbly and you can’t help feeling upbeat after her sessions and Adam is a good laugh and tells us all to try our best but have fun along the way.”

It’s not just the staff that has made a difference for Neil. Active Recovery has given him a new sense of purpose. Neil also said: “There are so many friends and people I now know… I’m so glad I joined when I did. I feel part of a team.”

Neil has come a long way under the programme and feels he wouldn’t be where he is without it.

“My cancer isn’t going away… it’s still there, but I am going to stay as healthy as I can, so I can fight it as long as I can, and this programme is wonderful for that. I am so grateful for everyone who has helped me get as far as I have.”

Above all, Neil can be himself and look for support when he needs it. Whether that’s joining in with a social element with other cancer fighters or pushing for better fitness, he feels as though everyone is encouraging you to do your best.