Fowler, Rush and LFC Foundation support Special Olympics
Liverpool FC Foundation coaches joined forces with Special Olympics at Bellarmine College Preparatory in San Jose on Saturday, delivering a series of skills sessions with the help of Robbie Fowler and Ian Rush.
“Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
That oath underlines the mission of the organisation – which provides athletic opportunities to children and adults with intellectual disabilities, instilling the confidence needed to succeed in life.
And coaches from the club’s official charity offered their help while in the area as part of the ongoing pre-season tour, overseeing drills and sharing their knowledge of the game.
Club ambassadors Fowler and Rush joined in too, chatting with the participants, posing for photographs and – in the case of the former – going between the posts to face a number of penalties.
Mighty Red was on hand to give out goodies, and there was even a special guest appearance by Brandi Chastain, former USA women’s international and two-time Women’s World Cup winner.
One participant, Louis, who attends a number of the programmes in San Jose, said: “Coming here and playing sports with Special Olympics has really changed my life, because in high school I had a chance to play sports but I hung with the wrong crowd.
“I think of Special Olympics as my family.
“I follow Liverpool and to have them here to teach us new moves and skills is a true honour, because we get to better ourselves.”
Fowler commented: “Today was great for Ian and I. We really enjoy getting involved in coaching sessions with such inspiring youngsters.
“The LFC Foundation coaches always provide professional, high-quality coaching and ensure that all the participants are having fun.”
Cyruss Nassersaeid of Special Olympics Northern California added: "Special Olympics Northern California was thrilled and grateful to partner with the LFC Foundation to provide a tremendous opportunity to improve skills but more importantly use sport as a way to break down barriers, build community, and learn from one another through play.”
Head of the LFC Foundation Andrea Cooper said: “Special Olympics is a fantastic organisation which we are proud to be supporting.
“We are extremely pleased to be working alongside Special Olympics to deliver inclusive coaching for those with additional needs. The Foundation prides itself on working closely with participants to help them fulfil their potential in different ways.”
Watch the free video above to see more from the session.