AN “AMAZING” £10,000 donation from Rotherham Lions to Rotherham United Community Trust's campaign will directly fund the purchase of two brand-new powerchairs

Launched by RUCT earlier this year, the 50K Power Play campaign aims to raise £50,000 to secure the future of Powerchair Football in South Yorkshire, the only provision of its kind in the region.

The funding for the Powerchair Football programme will replace outdated and unusable equipment, enabling players with physical disabilities to train, compete, and thrive in a safe and inclusive environment.

RUCT delivers a wide range of community programmes as the official charity of Rotherham United Football Club, with a strong focus on inclusion, health, and wellbeing.

Appeal launched: (L-R) power chair participant Andy Webb, community coach Matthew Morris, head of communities and inclusion Dylan Hadley, community coach Jonathan Clarke, director of business development Jonathan Allan and contract manager for Places Leisure Rotherham Matt Stothard.

placeholder image — Appeal launched: (L-R) power chair participant Andy Webb, community coach Matthew Morris, head of communities and inclusion Dylan Hadley, community coach Jonathan Clarke, director of business development Jonathan Allan and contract manager for Places Leisure Rotherham Matt Stothard.

Its Powerchair Football programme has grown rapidly, offering players not only weekly sessions but also pathways into regional, national, and even international competition.

Rotherham Lions Club has been supporting local causes for over 60 years and plays a vital role in strengthening the community through fundraising, volunteering, and charitable giving.

Dylan Hadley, head of communities and inclusion at RUCT, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Rotherham Lions for their amazing support.

“This donation isn’t just funding equipment, it’s changing lives.

“These chairs will give our players the chance to compete, grow in confidence, and be part of a team where they truly belong.

“It means so much to our participants and their families, and we’re proud to be working alongside an organisation that shares our passion for making a difference.”

Clive Jones, vice president of Rotherham Lions said: “When we were contacted about the Powerchair Football fundraising campaign, we immediately recognised it as something we wanted to be part of.

“We had the opportunity to attend a session at Rotherham Leisure Complex, where we saw first-hand the positive impact this programme has.

“It was inspiring to see children and adults enjoying a sporting activity that simply wouldn’t be possible without these specialist powerchairs.

“Just as importantly, it brought families together, creating a supportive environment where people facing similar challenges could connect and support one another.

“We feel privileged to be able to support such a fantastic cause and hope to see the players continue to progress, perhaps one day competing against teams like Leeds or even representing Great Britain.”