The chair of Sussex Disability Football League (SDFL) Steve Atkins, will swap his football boots for walking shoes in June in a unique challenge to raise money for the league.

Steve will attempt to walk over 100 miles in just three days taking in the home grounds of several Sussex football clubs on route.

He hopes to share the league’s Pan Disability message of inclusion and equality whilst raising much needed funds.  

“The league has been growing every year since it started in 2009," said Steve, "and we have seen a huge growth in adult and youth football, which we are delighted about.

“But the costs of running it are growing too and it’s a challenge to provide a quality product to our members and their families.” 

Steve is hoping to raise £12,000, which is the cost of delivering Sussex Disability Football League’s fixtures each season.

“We have some wonderful sponsors who have been extremely kind and loyal to the league for many years but in these uncertain times I do worry about the future. I’d love to raise the full amount and I’m hoping for the best, but anything helps.”

Steve will start at Worthing Town Football Club and walk to neighbouring Worthing Football Club before heading north to Crawley Town, onto East Grinstead, south to the home of Seaford Town FC and then west to the Amex, home of Brighton & Hove Albion.

Steve hopes to eventually end up at our Headquarters in Culver Road, Lancing, where the SDFL holds its fixtures.

The aim is to finish in time to help set up the pitches for the final day of the season on Sunday 11 June 2023. 

The SDFL ensures the beautiful game is available for everyone to enjoy. It’s supported by clubs throughout the county and even one from Surrey.

But despite its growing support, Steve believes it can be even bigger.

“I’d like people to support my walk and help me raise the money, but I also want to use it as an opportunity to engage with the clubs around Sussex.

"We need their help to raise the profile of Pan-Disability football as proper football; a sport that’s open, accessible and available for everyone. The more we speak about it, the more chance there is of people coming along and joining in.

“I would love it if a representative of each club comes out for a photo and quick chat while I’m passing by their ground. If they came with a cup of coffee and a biscuit, I would count that as a win!”

You can support Steve by donating via his Just Giving page: 
JUST GIVING

For further information on disability football in Sussex please contact:

Development
T: 01903 766855
E: Development@SussexFA.com