Hertfordshire clubs can now apply to become part of Comets, a brand-new pan-disability programme designed to provide more opportunities for disabled children play football

Comets is a recreational, pan-disability football offer for disabled children aged 5-11. The programme is focused on helping disabled children have fun, whilst building confidence, independence and social relationships. Comets provides an environment in which participants can feel safe and belong.

All sessions are delivered by FA qualified coaches, who have received specific programme training and guidance to provide a safe place for disabled children to try football for the first time and develop key skills.

 Why have we created Comets Disability Football?

There is a lack of opportunity and a gap in the pathway for disabled players of this age, especially in a recreational environment. Comets will help give more clubs the confidence to engage and support disabled players with a fun introduction to football, helping grow this pathway.

What is pan-disability?

Pan-disability is the largest format of disability football, which sees players with a broad range of impairments and health conditions play together. Although this a pan-disability programme, there may be opportunities to utilise it in an impairment-specific environment, which sees players with the same impairment play together.

Who can apply and how?

We would like to engage grassroots clubs who want to start, or grow, their club’s disability pathway, to help support the growth of disability football across the club network. We would also be happy to explore organisations who have expertise in disability and are interested in engaging their members in football. Providers must complete the application form and meet all required criteria to be considered.

What will providers receive?

Providers receive a range of support, including a £500 intended to support facility costs whilst establishing sessions, a kit and equipment pack, training and signposting to support delivery and resources to help recruit players to your sessions.

Want to get involved?

If you are interested in providing sessions in Hertfordshire and would like any further advice or information, please get in touch with us and we'll be happy to help.

For more on what is involved with providing sessions and the support you would receive in terms of funding and resources, please download the Guidance document below.

If you have any further questions about becoming an England Football provider in Hertfordshire please contact Beth Dawes on 01462 650224.

Download England Football Providers Guidance

For information about our other funded programmes which are aimed at increasing female participation, visit this page.