In partnership with Wembley National Stadium Trust (WNST) and the Every Player Counts programme, Checkatrade are providing an opportunity to participants of Community Trust programmes across the EFL to attend Matchday Three fixtures of the Checkatrade Trophy.
“It really is a great example of where football brings people together irrespective of age, ability or disability,” explained Clive Maguire, who leads on delivery for both the Deaf and Mental Health programmes at Swindon Town in the Community (STFITC), as they became just one of 12 clubs to profit, receiving 20 tickets in total.
Over 150 tickets were given out during the first matchday, whilst almost 400 are on offer this time around, with Checkatrade keen to reward the commitment, hard work and dedication shown from all of the Community Trusts across the country.
Paul O’Sullivan, who is an original member of the Mental Health Team at Swindon Town stated: “We are looking forward to meeting members of the Deaf Squad, and getting behind our local professional football team.”
Through the WNST and EFL's Every Player Counts Project, STFITC were one of those to benefit from the giveaway, with deaf footballers and mental health players attending Swindon’s victory against Wycombe Wanderers in a recent Checkatrade Trophy tie at the County Ground.
Speaking of his time at the Trust, Paul explained: “I am really enjoying being a part of the squad, who I often meet with socially away from the weekly session, and we are all looking forward to supporting Swindon Town together.”
Both squads, who train on Tuesdays and Wednesdays respectively, were very much looking forward to supporting their local professional football club, which they all feel very much part of since joining their respective teams last year.
Clive continued: “When I mentioned to both squads at training last week about the complimentary tickets, they were all really excited at the prospect of coming to the match, and supporting the team.
“These sessions, set up through the Every Player Counts initiative, have proved to be extremely beneficial to all the participants who have not only made new friends, but also connected with their local football club.”
Kevin Byrne, CEO and Founder of Checkatrade, added: “When we heard about the good work being done by the EFL Trust, we were keen to do what we can to help support the community projects that happen all over the country including the Every Player Counts project.
“Checkatrade is a brand built on supporting the community so we’re delighted to help where we can and we hope everyone enjoys the upcoming fixtures.”