Back in February, I was lucky to be given a chance to go to a Gateway Event at Eastwood High School.  With my Mum, Dad and two little brothers.  I spent a couple of hours experiencing different sports including judo and basketball.  At this event, I was spotted by an assistant coach who suggested I represent St Ninian’s High School at the Paralympic Pathways Festival at Ravenscraig.  I couldn’t believe I’d been given this opportunity and was really keen to show any scouts what I could do on a football pitch!

On Tuesday 11 March, I arrived at school at 8.30am and met Mr Capuano who was waiting for us all.  A mini bus took Paul Eadie, Jack Schofield, Bethany Chrystal, Charlotte Taylor, Mr Capuano and I to Ravenscraig Sports complex.  I was allocated a yellow t-shirt and throughout the day I was given opportunities to experience familiar sports like football, table tennis, rowing, athletics and judo, as well as more unusual events such as wheelchair basketball and boccia.  Wheelchair basketball was very frustrating for me; it was tricky because I have hemiplegic cerebral palsy down my right side and moving the wheel was hard.  I’m very fortunate to have a mild form of CP but it made me realise how strong and determined paralympic athletes are.

 The highlight of my day was when I was approached by an assistant coach who had been watching my football performance.  He asked if I’d like to go to Stirling for a trial with the Scottish CP Football Team.  I jumped at the chance and was determined to make it count.

On Sunday I spent the day at Stirling Albion’s football ground where I met the whole team.  Robert and David, two team members made me feel really welcome.  They currently train with the Paralympic Squad.  I got to take part in some drills (passing, dribbling and shooting), and in a match I scored a hat-trick!  David, the coach, caught up with me afterwards to congratulate me and asked if I’d like to come back on the May 25 !

 I’d like to thank Mr Capuano, all the leaders at The Paralympic Festival and everyone associated with the Scottish CP Football Team for giving me these opportunities.  Who knows what my future in football will hold!

 Matthew Wynne 1a8