Get your kit on!

Posted by MST on January 7, 2010 | No Comments |  Print This Post |  Email This Post

The Hartington Harriers, the resident’s football team at Hartington House in Derby, were delighted when a local team made a donation of £150 to buy kit and much-needed training supplies.

Mark Simmonds, who manages another MST service nearby, had heard about the team’s needs via MST’s staff  intranet and wondered if he could help. “I play for a local team in Nottingham and when I mentioned it to my coach, he said he thought the club could pitch in.” The cheque, presented by Mark on behalf of Trent Vineyard Football Club to current manager Maria Kunica and the team, will be used for kit, training equipment, and for hiring facilities during the winter months.

Maria doesn’t claim to have a lot of technical knowledge or formal training when it comes to football training, but what she lacks in experience she more than makes up for in enthusiasm. This positive attitude has caught the imagination of the residents at Hartington, who are eager to get involved and play regularly. As well as seeing it as a fun and healthy activity that gets them out and about, many of the players also recognise its value in terms of breaking down barriers and building friendships. “You get to see different sides of people – and everyone’s up for training and playing together”, said Paul Fairweather. Another resident, Lee Riddings, added “It’s great when you win, and you get interacting together.”

Maria also pointed out that it’s a good opportunity to build trust and respect between service users, and break down the barriers that sometimes occur between staff and residents.

With their new kit the Harriers are now ready and raring to go. All they need now is some competition! If you know of anyone who wants a game and fancies taking them on, please contact Maria Kunica or Mark Simmonds for more details.