Rewards of coaching Down syndrome kids

As a result, I have a better understanding of how to support the kids on and off the pitch - for example, if we have a child who is deaf, I am able to include them by using sign language.

The challenges I have faced with coaching our Down syndrome group is that it can be very hard for players to understand how to complete a certain game, which can make them very frustrated.

This has required a lot of patience, as I show them gradually how to get the hang of the skill.

Having patience, and demonstrating in a calm manner how they can overcome something difficult, puts the players at ease and makes them less worried about getting something wrong, when others may have achieved it the first time.

Luckily, I have had so much support from our disability-project leader at Arsenal, Luke, who has helped me gain a better understanding of how to coach within so many different projects.

Being involved with the Down syndrome groups is so rewarding, as you can always see how happy the kids are to be there. The children also develop in so many ways, as we don’t only focus on their soccer skills.

"I loved every minute of the first session I did with the Down syndrome groups..."

Our sessions are intended for them to stay active - but, most importantly, be part of a sport they love.

The majority of our players are regulars and have been coming to the club for years, which means they see each other all the time and have developed such good social skills.

Coaching the Down syndrome groups has taught me so many skills, beneficial to coaching all players.

I am able to adapt very quickly - I could have an adult learning disability session in the morning, then go to an all-girls' after-school session, with a Down syndrome session in the evening. I have also been able to bring my organisation skills and patience to non-disability sessions.

The best advice I would give other coaches who are thinking of getting involved within disability work is, simply, to do it.

I never thought this would be an area of coaching I would be involved with. I didn't think I would have been good enough to be part of it.

However, I definitely think it should be something all coaches experience - it is such a great thing to be part of.