FootGolf stars will step up to help out with autism charity
Top players to host event for Paisley group
A Paisley charity is helping disabled children enjoy the outdoors - by trying out one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.
Lawn Street organisation Iconic Ultimate Warriors, which supports children and adults affected by autism, is hosting an event this Saturday at Broadlees Golf Club along with the FootGolf Association of Scotland.
It will allow those affected by the lifelong developmental disability to try the popular sport in a safe and calm environment.
The Chapelton venue has recently opened a designated Championship-quality FootGolf course, which is home to Scottish Champions Glasgow FootGolf Club and is one of the venues featured on the official Scottish FootGolf Tour.
FootGolf sees competitors playing with footballs on converted golf courses, with 21-inch holes, and trying to complete each hole in the least number of shots.
And due to the fact that golf and FootGolf courses are wide open spaces, it’s hoped autistic children will be able to fall in love with the new hobby.
Two of the world’s top players are helping to run the event, in the form of Scotland captain Joe McCourt and Scottish ladies number one Carolyn Kent.
Carolyn, who won last year’s World Tour Event at the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales, is player development officer for the FootGolf Association of Scotland.
She said: “We are delighted to welcome Iconic Ultimate Warriors to try FootGolf.
“The meeting came about when their chairwoman Alison Thomson contacted us about the feasibility of FootGolf for children with autism.
“Sport historically has had a lot of barriers to participation for those with developmental disabilities and I feel FootGolf has the capability to bridge that gap.
“We are able to lengthen and shorten the holes to suit different players and also move the tees to other positions to make the holes harder or easier.
“As a golf course is relatively quiet it is also a great environment for those who struggle with loud noise and sensory overload.
“Going forward I would love to help more players with disabilities try this sport and encourage them to contact the FootGolf Association of Scotland for more details.”
Joe, who is a former Scottish National Champion, said the event is one which is close to his heart due to his own experiences with Autism.
He explained: “My son Cian, six, is severely autistic and non verbal, so it’s something I’m passionate about.
“I was absolutely delighted when Alison got in touch with us as it’s something I have been thinking about for a while. I know how important routine and schedule can be, and hopefully FootGolf can become a part of that.
“It could be a great outlet for kids with autism as it is an outdoor activity with minimum noise levels and lots of fun.
“It’s also great for mums and dads to also get involved, whether it be playing themselves, or just having a walk about a nice wide open space as some respite time while the kids enjoy playing.”
Anyone interested in playing FootGolf socially or competitively in Scotland can find more information at www.facebook.com/FootGolfAssociation-of-Scotland-104172424669974.