Oxford United’s inclusion football team experience first away fixture against Northampton Town

Football is for everyone, regardless of ability, age, background, or gender. Oxford United’s inclusive football sessions that 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.

After welcoming Northampton Town’s inclusion squad to Oxford in January, the team played the return fixture against the Cobblers last week, in their first away day of the season. This series of friendlies comprised of two teams of six players each.

Mark Thomas, Social Inclusion Lead at Oxford United in the Community, said progress both on and off the pitch was evident through the day:

“This was our third fixture as a team and the positive changes in terms of communication, teamwork, cohesion and skill were really pleasing to see,” said Mark. “Seeing players’ development in these areas underlines the value our inclusion football team brings to those who live with a learning difference."

Lee Humber, Adults with Learning Differences Coordinator at the College, added:

“Travelling to Northampton and playing our first away fixture of the season was a great experience for the team and really strengthened the existing relationships which had been built through training ... “Although we’ve welcomed scores of new members this year, we still have capacity at our weekly sessions and invite anyone interested to join us and be part of the team.”

This year participants have had a chance to meet Head Coach Des Buckingham, at a behind-the-scenes training ground tour, presenting the club’s Player of the Month award and were invited as guests to a matchday, as well as being cheered on by club legend James Constable, in the first leg against the Cobblers. Further fixtures with other EFL clubs managed by their community trusts are planned at the beginning of 2025.

Creating opportunities for all

Witnessing first-hand the positive impact the inclusion sessions have had on participants is Support Worker, Matthew Clarke. Each week, he drives brothers Titus and Rafi Baxter to the College for their weekly training session. Matthew said training with Oxford United in the Community coaches provides the highlight of their week.

“Every Monday morning when the week begins, Titus and Rafi want to know if we’re going to football on Wednesday,” said Matthew. “Opportunities of this kind were non-existent years ago, but now not only can Titus and Rafi train each week but they also enjoy trips to the training ground, days out at matches and even meet players in the first team."

“People who live with a learning difference can bring so much to the community. It’s pleasing Oxford United recognise this – the opportunities we’ve experienced have been amazing ... It’s a chance for participants to make friends with likeminded people as well, and there’s a real bond in the team.”

Anyone living with a learning difference who wishes to join Oxford United’s inclusion football squad can email us for more details. Sessions take place every Wednesday during term time at the Abingdon campus in the sports hall from 12.30pm and run for 90 minutes. No previous playing experience is required, only suitable clothing and a pair of trainers.

We work in partnership with many organisations in the local community to offer a diverse range of courses, projects, and workshops for people with all levels of learning differences. Find out about all our courses here: Adults with Learning Differences - Abingdon & Witney College