Hertfordshire FA Pan-Disability League

About the league

The Hertfordshire FA Pan-Disability Football League provides adults with disabilities the opportunity to play regular competitive football in a safe, inclusive and supportive environment. The league welcomes players of all abilities and experience levels who want to enjoy football, improve their skills and represent Minds United Sports Club CIC.

Whether you are new to football or have played for many years, our coaches and volunteers will support you throughout the season. The emphasis is on enjoyment, participation, teamwork, respect and personal development while competing in organised league fixtures.

Our teams compete against other pan-disability clubs from across Middlesex in a friendly but competitive environment. Every player is encouraged to develop their confidence, fitness, communication skills and independence while building lasting friendships.

Benefits of taking part

By joining the league you can:

• Improve your physical health and fitness.

• Boost your mental health and wellbeing.

• Increase confidence and self-esteem.

• Develop football skills and match experience.

• Learn teamwork, communication and leadership skills.

• Meet new people and reduce social isolation.

• Represent Minds United Sports Club CIC in league competitions.

• Progress to county cups, regional competitions and other football opportunities.

Who can attend?

The league is suitable for adults (18+) with:

• Learning disabilities

• Autism

• Physical disabilities

• Sensory impairments

• Long-term health conditions

• Mental health conditions (where appropriate for competitive football)

Players should be able to take part safely in a football match. If you have any medical conditions or support needs, please let us know before your first fixture so we can provide the appropriate support.

What happens on match day?

Players should arrive in plenty of time before kick-off to register, meet teammates and warm up.

A typical match day includes:

• Registration

• Team briefing

• Structured warm-up

• League matches

• Half-time team talk

• Cool down

• Social time with teammates

Our qualified coaches and volunteers are present throughout to provide guidance, encouragement and support.

What to wear

Please wear suitable sports clothing appropriate for the weather.

Recommended clothing includes:

• Football shirt or sports top

• Shorts or tracksuit bottoms

• Football socks

• Shin pads (strongly recommended)

• Goalkeeper gloves (if applicable)

• Waterproof jacket during wet weather

• Warm clothing during colder months

• Plenty of drinking water

Footwear

For health and safety, players should wear suitable football footwear.

Recommended footwear:

• Moulded football boots (plastic studs)

• Astro turf trainers (if permitted by the venue)

Not permitted:

• Metal studs

• Blade-style boots if prohibited by the venue

• Damaged footwear

If you are unsure what footwear is suitable, please contact us before attending.

Accessibility

We aim to make the league as accessible as possible.

Support may include:

• Friendly coaches and volunteers

• Clear communication

• Additional encouragement where required

• Individual support where appropriate

• Accessible facilities (subject to venue)

Please tell us about any support needs before attending.

Behaviour expectations

We are committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for everyone.

All participants are expected to:

• Treat teammates, opponents, referees and staff with respect.

• Follow instructions from coaches and officials.

• Display good sportsmanship at all times.

• Avoid abusive, aggressive or discriminatory behaviour.

• Help create a welcoming environment for all players.

Persistent poor behaviour may result in disciplinary action in line with our club policies.

Health & safety

Participant safety is our priority.

Please:

• Bring any medication you may require.

• Inform staff of any medical conditions or changes before playing.

• Stay hydrated throughout the day.

• Do not attend if you have a contagious illness.

• Inform staff immediately if you become unwell or injured.

Qualified first aiders are available during fixtures.

Getting there

We provide minibus location. Please check fixture information carefully as venues may vary throughout the season.

Where available, transport support may be offered for eligible participants. Please contact us in advance if you require assistance.

Registration

New players are welcome throughout the season, subject to team availability and league registration requirements.

If you are interested in joining Minds United Sports Club CIC's Pan-Disability Football Team, please contact us before attending so we can discuss the registration process and ensure the league is suitable for your needs. The Hertfordshire league teams will be selected by the Minds United coaches.

We look forward to welcoming you to the team and helping you enjoy the many physical, social and mental wellbeing benefits that inclusive football has to offer.