Celebrating our Community Hero: Lee Humber recognised in EFL honour at Oxford United

At the start of this month, as part of the English Football League’s (EFL) Community Weekends, local heroes were celebrated for the impact they make in their communities. One of those recognised was our very own Dr Lee Humber, our Adults with Learning Differences (ALD) Leader.

Debbie Cook, Director of Community at the EFL explained:

“EFL Club Charities engage more than one million people in our communities all year round. To be able to showcase the Club community work as a collective and acknowledge the work of participants and programme leaders-many of whom are volunteers–really shows the scope and impact this vital work plays in supporting local fans and residents."

The ALD Team at Abingdon & Witney College work in partnership with Oxford United in The Community, running their inclusion football team, and Lee was presented with the award on the pitch at half-time, in their home game against Coventry City.

On receiving the award, Lee said:

"I feel tremendously honoured to have been given this award and I want to thank Oxford United for making our inclusive football team possible. Being named a Community Hero is something I will always cherish. But I also feel greatly honoured to have the privilege of working with this fabulous bunch of players who bring a fantastic enthusiasm, energy and joy to the college every week. So my thanks go also to them."

On his experience with the programme, Lee shared:

“Working with Oxford United in the Community has been fab – the coaches have been expert, inclusive, energising and a great laugh! Together Oxford United in the Community and Abingdon & Witney College have been able to grow the inclusive football sessions from 4 players to 24 in a little over two seasons. During that time players – of all ages and abilities – have progressed magnificently in terms of their footballing skills and overall health and fitness, but also in terms of their confidence working together as a collective. It’s been a privilege working with them.”

Oxford United’s inclusive football sessions which run in partnership with Abingdon & Witney College and Oxford United in the Community, provide those with learning differences the opportunity to join a team. Through tailored weekly training sessions and regular competitive matches, participants are given a supportive environment to develop their skills and enjoy the game. Anyone living with a learning difference who wishes to join Oxford United’s inclusion football squad can email us for more details.

We're extremely proud of Lee and all those working with our inclusion team, and the impact it has on positively changing lives. A well-deserved honour, congratulations Lee!