I have a great delight in sharing some exciting news with you! I have been selected as a member of the Great Britain Deaf Football squad for the European Football Championship, Portugal, 10th-23rdJune 2007. I am not sure if you know this fact but Lee Farrell of Lewes FC are also in the squad so it will be an excellent experience for me by playing with him of his high standard in football.
I would ask you therefore if there is any way that you or Welling United could help me with raising the costs towards my participation in the European Football Championships in Portugal. Any suggestions or ideas are welcome.
That's the FA for you. They claim to care about grassroots and disabled teams, but expect players like Mark to pay for the privilage of representing their country. If I think of any money raising ideas I'll let you know.
I know as Great Britain Deaf are self-funded and do not receive any help or support from the Football Association or the Government, simply because we are Great Britain. This means we rely on sponsorships/charitable donations and kind donations from outside support. All coaches, managers and physiotherapists who work with Great Britain Deaf Football are volunteers, and to date, they have never received wages for their hard work.
I will be given a signed ball by Charlton Athletic Football Club and will plan to set up an auction so the fund from it will go straight to Great Britain. Any more ideas would be much appreciated.
