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Some of the top powerchair football players from across the nation are set to compete in the Wheelchair Football Association (WFA) Cup at St. George’s Park later this month. This event is a highlight of the FA Disability Cup weekend, taking place on Saturday 29th June and Sunday 30th June, featuring finals for six different para football competitions.
Aspire Powerchair Football Club, led by England captain Jon Bolding, will defend their title. Aspire has been instrumental in the growth of powerchair football in the UK, winning the first WFA Cup in the 2009-10 season and becoming the most decorated club with seven titles out of 13.
Aspire secured the WFA Cup last year, following victories by Northern Thunder and West Bromwich Albion in previous years. West Bromwich Albion, managed by England goalkeeper Chris Gordon, aims to reclaim the title after their last triumph three years ago.
West Bromwich Albion have recently won the National Premiership and bring notable international talent to the competition, including Valentino Zegarelli from Argentina, who made a significant impact with a hat trick in his debut. Alongside Dylan Kelsall, who is excited for his first cup final appearance, hopes for an entertaining match that showcases the sport’s elite qualities.
Dylan aged 21, is a former beneficiary of Caudwell Children, a disabled and autistic children’s charity based in Staffordshire and currently works at the Caudwell International Children’s Centre as a Marketing Assistant Apprentice.
Dylan said: “Caudwell Children has been a cornerstone in my journey, providing me with the support and resources I needed to thrive despite my physical disability.
“My relationship with Caudwell Children began when I was 12 years old. They provided funding for my first powered wheelchair, specifically designed for Powerchair Football. This incredible support marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in my life.
“With the powered wheelchair, I was able to engage in Powerchair Football, a sport that became a passion and a significant part of my life. The support from Caudwell Children enabled me to break barriers and achieve milestones I never thought possible.”
At the age of 16, Dylan was selected to play for England, where he represented his country three times in Belfast, Dublin and Troyes. Over his career, Dylan has scored 100 National league goals and has been the Top Goal Scorer twice. He has also been honoured as the “Players’ Player”, a testament to his dedication and skill.
Caudwell Children provides specialised Sport Equipment for disabled children and young people up to the age of 25, including wheelchairs, which enable continued participation, development and success in sport.
West Brom Albion are aiming to win the Cup in memory of their team mate, Logan Mitchelson, who sadly passed away this season.
Dylan said: “I told Logan’s family we would become Premier League Champions and that we would win the trophy for Logan.
“It was a promise that everyone in our team were committed to, and we’ve done it. We aim to do the same with the WFA Cup.”
In a recent thrilling encounter, West Brom staged a remarkable comeback to draw 2-2 with Aspire despite being a player down. Both teams have prepared rigorously, navigating through tough group and knockout stages to reach the final.
Aspire advanced to the final with a 10-0 quarter-final win over Hull and East Yorkshire Powerchair Football Club and a narrow 1-0 victory against Teesside in the semi-finals. West Brom’s journey included a 12-0 win over Muscle Warriors and a close 1-0 win against West Bromwich Albion Throstles.
Chris Gordon said “The FA Disability Cup is a great occasion for Powerchair Football and Disability Football as a whole. The event gives us athletes a chance to showcase our talents playing at the iconic St George’s Park, which is our equivalent to Wembley Stadium, all whilst being broadcasted live on TNT Sports.
“As players, we get a real buzz when entering the court in front of the TV camera and a packed-out crowd. There really isn’t anything like it!”
The familiarity between the two finalists adds to the excitement.
Dylan added: “although we know each other’s play styles, the unpredictability of cup matches means anything can happen.”
The WFA Cup final, broadcast live on TNT Sport, provides a significant platform to raise awareness of powerchair football.