Scotland is set to host the inaugural EAFF Nations League in October, showcasing the best of para-football. The tournament, which will take place in Fife, will feature teams from the Netherlands, Albania, Azerbaijan, and Kosovo, making it the largest international para-football tournament of its kind in Scotland.
The matches will be held at Dalgety Bay Sports Centre, and Ashley Reid, the founder of Scotland’s Amputee Football Association and chief executive of Scottish Para-Football, is calling on the public to support the event. Reid expressed excitement at hosting such a significant event, stating that it is the biggest sporting event for para-football and disability football ever hosted in Scotland.
The Nations League is organized by the European Amputee Football Federation (EAFF), of which the Amputee Football Association Scotland (AFAS) is a member. Scotland’s squad, made up of 11 players with lower or upper limb amputations, will compete against international counterparts in 15 matches over three days.
Reid emphasized the importance of financial backing for the event, as it is expected to cost around £35,000 for AFAS. The organization is open to discussing sponsorship opportunities and any other means of support, including donations of water, snacks, or even volunteering assistance. With only four volunteers currently operating the charity, hosting such a significant tournament is a major undertaking, but Reid is confident they will succeed.
Since its establishment in 2017, the Amputee Football Association Scotland has been dedicated to providing opportunities for individuals with limb loss to participate in the sport. The organization is now a game leader for Scottish para-football, overseeing all forms of para-football in Scotland.
The Amputee Football Nations League will feature 18 teams divided into four divisions, with Scotland, Poland, France, and Belgium serving as host nations. The bottom team in each group will be relegated to a lower division, while the top team will be promoted to a higher division. This new league is an exciting opportunity for teams to compete internationally and further raise the profile of amputee football.
The inaugural EAFF Nations League promises to be a significant event for para-football in Scotland. As the host nation, Scotland hopes to put on a spectacular show and showcase amputee football at its best. With international teams converging in Fife, this tournament will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for the growth and development of para-football in Scotland, both on and off the pitch.
Overall, the EAFF Nations League presents a unique platform for para-football athletes to demonstrate their skills, passion, and dedication. It is a celebration of inclusivity and the power of sport to unite people from different backgrounds and abilities. By hosting this tournament, Scotland is not only putting para-football in the spotlight but also inspiring individuals with limb loss to pursue their sporting aspirations. The inaugural EAFF Nations League will be a memorable occasion, and Scotland encourages everyone to come and support the national team.
