Ability Counts Clubs

The SW Regional Ability Counts League is for adults (16+) with a disability who want to play football. The league is currently in its fourth season and this season, due to the number of clubs involved, the region has been split into a Northern League and a Southern League. Somerset, Gloucester, Wiltshire and Dorset make up the Northern League with Devon and Cornwall joining together to make the Southern League.

The two leagues follow a three tiered approach which comprises of League, Championship and Premiership. The league and championship fixtures are held every 6 weeks and hosted by a different county each time. The premiership fixtures are held every 6 weeks at a central venue in Somerset.

There are currently 5 Ability Counts Clubs in Somerset affiliated to Somerset FA. Please find below more information on each of these clubs.

BISPAA FC

BISPAA is a new team this season and has been set up in partnership with the Sport & Active Leisure Team at Bath and North East Somerset Council. BISPAA have joined the league and to date have attended 2 fixtures. For match reports and pictures of these fixtures, please see related documents.

Weston Warriors FC

Weston Warriors is also a new team this season and has been developed in partnership with the local Mental Health Service in Weston. The team has been put together with key individuals who recognised the benefits of physical activities for people who experience or are affectived by mental health issues. At first training opportunities were set up, however due to the high levels of interest, a team has now been developed. Weston Warriors have joined the championship league and have been involved in 2 fixtures. Feedback has been very positive from the players and coach. For match reports and pictures, please see related documents.

Clevedon Ability FC

Clevedon has been around since the start of the Regional Ability Counts League. They are a very experienced side and through the support of their secretary, continue to support themselves with funding from local councils, and businesses. Clevedon are in the league. For match reports and pictures, please see related documents.

Keynsham Town Mencap FC

Keynsham Town Mencap are now in their second season in the Ability Counts League. They are part of the Keynsham Mencap Society and was originally formed by a proactive parent keen to offer opportunities for adults with a disability to play football. Keynsham are in the league. For match reports and pictures, please see related documents.

Lufton College FC

Lufton College FC has been in place since the start of the Regional Ability Counts League. This team is comprised of young adults who attend Lufton College and have a very keen interest in football. Many of the young adults involved in the team have gone on to develop themselves as individuals through Coaching and Regional leadership programmes. Lufton College are in the league. For match reports and pictures, please see related documents.

For more information on the above teams or the league itself, please contact Rachael Edwards, Disability Football Development Officer on 07533 816510 or via email at rachael.edwards@somersetfa.com.