YOUNG pupils were filled with admiration after receiving a special visit from an international footballer during their Disability Awareness Sports Day.
Callands Community Primary School welcomed England International visually impaired footballer, Azeem Amir, to meet the children and celebrate the event.
The sportsman has been a keen advocate for disability rights and he now works as an ambassador for several disability organisations, public speaking, coaching and leading workshops with goals to inspire as many young people as possible to achieve their own version of success.
Speaking of the ‘fantastic’ experience, Azeem said: ‘’It was a real pleasure to be a part of the school's disability awareness sports day.
“The whole school including all staff and students from all year groups got on board and it was fantastic to see the atmosphere and enthusiasm from all the participants around giving the Paralympic sports a try.”
Pupils from all year groups were able to experience specialist coaching sessions throughout the day of paralympic sports including blind football, sit down volleyball, goalball and boccia.
“This was a fantastic initiative that I know would have left a real long-lasting impact,” he added.
Azeem inspired the children in an eye-opening assembly, and he also spent time working with each class, showcasing the skills and mental strength he poses.
Martyn Dutton, class teacher and physical education lead at Callands Community Primary School, said: “We have had an amazing day, Azeem is a role model, showing the children that they can achieve their goals regardless of the challenges they face in their lives.
“We are an inclusive school and want to promote happy, healthy lifestyles, ensuring the children develop an all-round acceptance of inclusion in sport.”
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