Disability and inclusion teams from England, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland will take part in The Glentoran Cup on Saturday, 29th July at Newforge Sports Complex, Belfast.
It is anticipated that roughly 300 participants will take part in the tournament organised by Glentoran Academy and hosted by the Glentoran Inclusion Team.
Glentoran FC Chairman Ian Kerr said inclusion "remains a key component" of the club's Social Partnership programme.
Read more: Fund set up to support hospitalised boxer who fought on Conlan card
“Glentoran has always been at the vanguard of improving inclusivity in sport," he said.
"Inclusion has been and remains a key component of our Glentoran Social Partnership programme. Sport is for everyone, irrespective of a person’s background or of the challenges life may present.
"This tournament is another step on this road. We hope everyone involved and participating gets the greatest possible enjoyment from it.”
Connswater, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, and Jordan’s Gift will be part-sponsor of this event and current of the Director of the Glentoran Academy and former club captain, Colin Nixon, is delighted to welcome the teams from all over the UK and Ireland.
He said: “We at the Glentoran Academy welcome the introduction of the inaugural Glentoran Inclusion Cup.
"This will be an exciting competition inclusive to all and we must give enormous credit to Mark Smith and his team in bringing such a tournament under the Glentoran banner.
"We look forward to welcoming teams from all over the UK along with spectators, family and friends.
"We are seeking volunteers to help with an array of duties so if you’re interested please get in touch.”
Glentoran Inclusion FC is for individuals who have an educational statement of need – ADHD, ADD or similar – or any form of health issue, be that mental, physical or a learning difficulty, or individuals coping with addiction.
The aim is to provide competitive football to those who would be largely excluded from competitive sport and all the associated social, physical, and mental health supports that being involved in a group can provide.
They train weekly, playing regular competitive matches, and attend tournaments in Northern Ireland, the UK, and Dublin.
Anyone ambulant aged from 7 to adult can play with with all ability levels available.
Please contact the club via email: inclusionacademy@glentoran.com
READ NEXT:
- Scottish Cup final: Inverness defender Danny Devine speaks of St James' pride ahead of Celtic showdown
Glenavon boss Gary Hamilton admits to full-time dilemma after losing star striker
- Rory Gallagher absence 'a bit of a weakness' for Derry ahead of Donegal clash says Paddy Bradley
Sign up to our f ree sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox
