Turkish disability coaching drive gathers pace

The second phase of the Turkish Football Association (TFF) disability coaching drive took place in Istanbul last month.

After the first stage of the initiative on 21 January had focused on tutor training for players with learning difficulties, February's instalment concentrated on physically disabled footballers. Participants included people with cerebral palsy and others whose lives had been affected by amputation or strokes.

The six-hour course was led by two specialists from the Scottish Football Association (SFA): Stuart Sharp, national development manager for disability football, and Greig Taylor, his assistant.

The practical part of the session was conducted using amputee football crutches and silencing headphones. Limitations on participants' movement were also imposed in order to give coaches an insight into the skills required by disabled players. Course delegates included TFF professional coaches, regional coordinators of Grassroots Turkey and academics experienced in disability sports.

"It was a pleasure to be invited to work with a group of coaches who see the benefits in working with players within disability football," said Sharp. "It seemed all the coaches enjoyed themselves and I hope they are able to take this enthusiasm back into their communities and ensure those with disabilities in Turkey gain a positive experience from the game."