The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is encouraging more blind and partially sighted people into sport with a new range of accessible sports equipment.
The full range of the new equipment will be available from RNIB’s online shop this Friday, just in time for the Premier League season which kicks off on Saturday, 12 September. The range includes footballs that are approved by the International Blind Sports Association (IBSA), RNIB branded basketballs and a running tether for people who enjoy running with a guide.
The footballs and basketballs make a rattling sound when in motion, which makes them ideal for blind and partially sighted players. A limited number of the footballs also carry the signature of RNIB Services Director, David Clarke who had a football career spanning 17 years and has been part of Great Britain’s squad in three Paralympics. He is England’s highest ever goal scorer with 128 goals, 144 caps and five golden boots.
David said: “Playing football has been a major part of my life so I am delighted that this great range of accessible sports equipment is available from RNIB. RNIB works to make the world a more inclusive place for people with sight loss and this equipment is a brilliant way of ensuring they can enjoy playing sport just like anybody else.”
Mikey Poulli, 10, from London lost his sight at the age of seven due to a condition called rod cone dystrophy. He is an aspiring football star, and he currently trains with England. Mikey is also a huge Arsenal supporter. He said: “I’ve always loved playing football and my dream is to one day play for England. I love playing with RNIB’s Blue Flame football, its sound is amazing, and it has made the game even more enjoyable for me.”
To see the full range of RNIB’s accessible sports equipment visit RNIB’s shop online at https://shop.rnib.org.uk/
