A new football coaching course for kids with autism is to kick off at The Queen of the South Arena in Dumfries.
The idea was launched by Carina MacMillan who works as an inclusion teacher at a secondary school in the region.
She said: “One of my pupils is obsessed with football but struggles with the social side of things and I realised there was nothing in the area for children with autism to become involved in football.
“I eventually spoke to Vinnie Parker, the manager at Threave Rovers, and he put me in contact with Dan Armstrong at Queen of the South who said he’d support it.
“Now we are starting our first session on Monday, April 24 at the arena with one of the young Queens’ coaches called Michael Dunsire who is also training to be a primary teacher. Dan said he has been wanting to do something like this for a while and to specialise in autism.
“The coaching will be open to boys and girls and cost £2 to cover the cost of the coach.”
She added: “I am not football daft myself and have never played football, but I knew there was nothing in this area and how important it would be for children to help develop their social skills.
“I see it as splitting into two groups eventually with one involving kids who see it as a stepping stone to a possible career playing or coaching.
“And the second group becoming involved who want to come and play football plus develop their social skills.”
The courses will be from 4.30pm to 5.30pm and run for six week blocks, then a two week rest and back to another six week block.
Queens’ Dan Armstrong, community development and commercial manager, said: “It is something we are proud to be involved in and working with Carina will be a fantastic addition to our community football pathway.
“Michael Dunsire will lead the session and is our community football coach who has delivered our School Stars programme and our ongoing soccer camps.
“Over the coming year we will continue to make football inclusive for all.”
