By KLTV Newsdesk –

Local players join hundreds across England and Wales to prove that disability is no barrier in sport

Huddersfield Town representatives joined hundreds of players from across England and Wales at three Premier League Disability Football Festivals, hosted by Arsenal, West Bromwich Albion, and Everton.

The events celebrated inclusion in football, giving young people with disabilities the opportunity to showcase their skills, meet new friends, and highlight how the Premier League’s community programmes, Kicks, Inspires and Primary Stars, support young people to achieve their potential.

“Nothing’s Going to Stop Me”

Huddersfield Town participant Aahil spoke about the impact of taking part in the festivals after attending the event hosted by Everton in the Community.

He said: “Being here and representing Huddersfield is an amazing experience. It’s a pleasure to be here. The atmosphere is really good.

“It helps me, you play against different people who have different disabilities, get to know a bit more about other people and how they play football. It’s another experience in life.”

Aahil was born with a defect in his leg, and had a procedure to have it amputated three years ago. However, he was confident he could keep playing.

Aahil added: “When my leg was amputated, I was 100 per cent certain that I was going to carry on playing. Nothing’s going to stop me.

“It means a lot to be part of this. My mum is really proud of me. My family was proud of me. School was proud of me. I’m really proud of myself.

“Being here makes me feel that I am not alone. There are loads of people here and everyone is enjoying it.

“These tournaments are really important for disability sport. Disabled people have a lot of talent that doesn’t get shown, so it’s really good to have this type of thing. Having this opportunity to show what I can do is really important to me.

“We are showing that disability is not a barrier. There are some people who say rude stuff, but you can’t let that stop you, you have to carry on going, you have to prove them wrong.”

Football for Everyone

The festivals not only gave participants the chance to compete, but also highlighted the Premier League’s commitment to inclusive community programmes.

These initiatives are designed to create opportunities for young people, regardless of ability, and to ensure football remains a sport for all.

For Aahil, and for many others who took part, the experience is about more than football; it’s about belonging, confidence, and breaking down barriers.