19 May 2025

Hereward has made an impressive winning return to competitive football this season after securing a regional FA league title.  

After winning 17 of their 22 league matches, with just one defeat since November, our team has been named Birmingham FA Pan-Disability Education League winners.  

The free-scoring team signalled its intentions with a 5-0 win over City of Wolverhampton College in their opening match in November and other stunning performances during a fantastic season which included an 8-0 victory over Dudley College.  

Scoring 48 goals in the league – and another nine in three friendly matches – Hereward were also tight at the back, conceding just 16 goals in the 25 games.  

The 16-strong mixed gender squad, aged between 16 and 24, trained twice a week as part of the college’s lunchtime clubs with sports teacher John Woodward and staff from Sky Blues in the Community.  

Monthly fixtures were held with teams playing short matches against each other at venues including Redditch United FC, City of Wolverhampton and Dudley College.  

Sports teacher Amit Patel said: “This season marks a milestone for Hereward College, as we competed in a formal football league setting for the first time in several years.  

“Throughout the season, our learners have demonstrated outstanding teamwork, dedication, and determination. They have been exceptional ambassadors for the college, representing us with pride and integrity.  

“Winning the league is a fantastic achievement, not only for the team but for the entire college community. We are immensely proud of our learners for their hard work, and we look forward to building on this success next year.”  

News of the league win followed a great day at the Football Association's National Training Centre in Burton-on-Trent earlier this month at a Pan Ability Development Festival, where our team won four of their games and drew one at St George's Park.

Disability Football Development Officer Ryan Kimberley talks about the league in this short interview: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=691380923301858