Story added: 28th February 2023

Kyle's Story

Kyle has been a participant at the Foundation for a number of years. Both he and his brother attended Disability Football sessions pre-pandemic but anxiety surrounding COVID-19 continued to prevent Kyle from taking part in any other extra-curricular activity.

Our Realising Potential Officers were tasked with re-engaging Kyle and inspiring him to get back to his best.

After just one meeting with him and his school teacher, the Realising Potential Officers outlined the syllabus and the progression pathways that Kyle could successfully complete. Kyle joined the programme that same afternoon and was very enthusiastic to start.

Initially when starting Realising Potential back in September 2022, like many, Kyle was anxious when it came to socialising with new people and making new friends. However, with the help and friendliness of the other participants, Kyle quickly started to come out of his shell, and we saw into his personality.

Our Realising Potential programme is now supporting Kyle with his aspirations in sports coaching by allowing him to shadow and support our coaches on a Tuesday night when they deliver PAN Disability Football sessions.

This has given him a feel of what it is like to coach disability participants at a higher ability, as well as give him the experience and knowledge of knowing whether he wishes to pursue sports coaching.

PLPFA Officer Ellie Dickinson told us:

“The personal development I have seen in Kyle has been outstanding. He has really started to overcome his anxieties and step outside of his comfort zone in regard to socialising and meeting new people.

“He’s no longer afraid to voice his opinions during group workshops and is a fantastic leader for the group during team activities. I am so proud of how far he has come and I can’t wait to watch him grow even further, as well as progress in his coaching volunteering.”

The combination of the programme, work experience and positive outlook has enabled Kyle to thrive and to become a popular member of Realising Potential. He is now very vocal and enjoys participating in group discussions, as well as showing support for his peers.

Upon speaking to Kyle, it was clear how the programme has positively impacted his life:

“When I first joined Realising Potential, I found it quite stressful and difficult because I didn’t know anyone else on the programme. But once I got started, I met a lot of really nice people.

“Those people and the staff have helped me become less anxious and to look forward to attending ‘educational’ sessions and now I feel more like me. If it wasn’t for the Foundation, I wouldn’t be where I am right now.”

After chatting with his family, Kyle’s younger brother is now involved in the junior Realising Potential sessions.

Additionally, the brothers are involved in the Match Day Clubs and fitness classes, enabling them to continue having the confidence to make new friends within the comfort of the Foundation.