Why More Volunteers Could Transform Disability Football

Jude Geoghegan is an award-winning grassroots football coach dedicated to creating inclusive opportunities for disabled players in his local community.

Born with Spina Bifida – a condition affecting the spine which means he uses crutches in everyday life – Jude experienced exclusion from football growing up. Determined to change that for others, he set up an inclusive football team at Estudiantes FC at just 19 years old, giving disabled players the chance to be part of a welcoming and supportive environment.

“For me, it was seeing there just wasn’t enough focus on inclusive football at clubs,” Jude explained. “I felt like it was the right time to actually do something about it.

“Even if it started small – five or ten players – I just wanted to build something and see where it could go. Most importantly, I wanted people with disabilities to have the same experiences as everyone else: enjoying football and being part of a team.”

Feeling unable to access traditional football environments is something many disabled players have experienced. But across the country, more disability football opportunities are emerging – such as through The FA’s Comets and Just Play sessions – helping make the game more accessible for everyone.

At Estudiantes FC, Jude has already seen the impact an inclusive environment can have on players.

“We’ve had players who couldn’t find the right environment at other clubs,” he said. “They came to us after trying different places just to give it a go, and they’ve stayed.

“They say it feels inclusive, like everyone accepts each other. There’s no pressure – it just works.”

Volunteering in disability football was never something Jude originally planned, but it’s become a huge part of his life – both personally and professionally.

“The best part is the atmosphere and the connections you build,” he said. “You meet different teams, work with organisations like The FA, and there’s a lot of support around volunteering.

“When I first started, I was nervous and didn’t know what to expect. But it’s been incredible.”

Now 20 years old, Jude balances his role as Inclusion Team Head Coach and Head of Inclusion Sports alongside studying Sports Journalism at the University of East London.

His work in disability sport has earned national recognition. In 2025, he was named Coach of the Year (Disability Pathway) at The FA Grassroots Football Awards, before later being recognised on the Football Black List in 2026 for empowering people of all abilities to get involved in the game.

At Wembley Stadium, Jude received his Grassroots Football Award from The FA’s CEO Mark Bullingham and former England International Paul Merson – although he remains modest about the recognition.

“I’ve been lucky to have some great opportunities,” he said. “But for me, it’s not about personal achievements – it’s about helping players enjoy their football and develop. That’s what matters most.”

For many people interested in volunteering, a lack of football knowledge can feel intimidating. But according to Jude, that shouldn’t stop anyone getting involved.

“Knowing things like the offside rule isn’t essential when you start,” he said. “You learn over time. Even some of our players don’t fully understand every rule, but that’s not what matters most. They’re here to enjoy football, have fun and be part of something.”

For many participants, disability football is about far more than the game itself. The sessions provide opportunities to socialise, improve wellbeing, build confidence and connect with others in similar situations.

And volunteers like Jude are helping make those opportunities possible – ensuring football truly is a game for everyone.

If you would like to volunteer in disability football, you can register your interest to hear about opportunities in your area: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019d874963c2704ab2433c4f8683d2ee

There are lots of different disability football arenas to Volunteer for they include:

Amputee Football

Blind Football (B1)

Visually Impaired Football (B2/B3)

Cerebral Palsy (CP) Football

Deaf & Hearing Impaired Football

Powerchair Football

Frame Football

Learning Disability (LD) Football

Pan-Disability Football

Mainstream & Walking Football