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World Cup 2007

Disappointment for England

The first Powerchair Football World Cup, held in Tokyo, Japan, in October 2007 was a raging success. Teams from seven countries competed to win the trophy and Team USA managed to win the event following a penalty shoot out against the tournament favourites, France.

England did not manage to make it to the play off rounds but came so close. The team we didn't start to gel until later games and this meant that they were faced with difficult wins and more importantly and harshly, waiting for other teams to pull off almost impossible victories to aid their cause.

Players from the Percy Hedley Sports Academy played in every game and more importantly, scored vital goals. None more so important than the goal scored by Faye Stevenson against France which meant that this game was a draw. This feat in itself sealed the fate of France as they were humbled by their first failure to win and this sent the French team on a downward spiral which culminated in the early tournament favourites losing out to Team USA in the final.

Throughout the tournament England hassled their opponents and their playing style was vastly different to any of the other teams who took part. This tournament in itself was the first official outing of an England team and has set the standard for future elite player development within England and the Wheelchair Football Association (WFA).

All in all the World Cup was a great opportunity for all who took part in it and while we could have wished for different results and a better final standing it is something that we can all look back on and be proud of.

 

If you would like any further information about Wheelchair Football, the work of the WFA or future developments, please visit the WFA website, www.thewfa.org.uk or contact Ricky Stevenson at ricky.stevenson@nottscc.gov.uk.

 

For more information about the Percy Hedley Sports Academy please contact Adam Parry, Sports Development Officer at the Percy Hedley Sports Academy on 0191 268 7116 or via e-mail at a.parry@percyhedley.org.uk.

 

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