Special Cruyff Court Shane Williams at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman in Ammanford (Wales) has officially opened! A place where youngsters can play sports and meet one another in a safe and inclusive environment.
The school is a bilingual comprehensive in Carmarthenshire with 1,436 pupils. Pupils come from Ammanford and nearby villages. Around 30% have special educational needs, including pupils in Canolfan Amanwy, the school’s specialist provision for learners with special needs.
The Cruyff Court gives all youngsters the chance to take part in sport in an accessible environment. For pupils with special needs, it offers a space to be active, build confidence and join in with others.
For other pupils, the court also supports leadership through the Cruyff Champions programme. Students learn how to encourage, support and include others through sport. The programme aims to bring pupils together and strengthen inclusion across the school.
SHANE WILLIAMS
Former Wales international Shane Williams was also present at the opening and took part in the activities throughout the day. His involvement reflects the values of the project: inclusion, teamwork and opportunity through sport.
Shane said: ''I’m proud to be involved in the opening of this Special Cruyff Court here in Ammanford. Every child should have the chance to enjoy sport, feel included and build confidence. It’s fantastic to see a space like this that brings children together and creates opportunities for everyone, regardless of their abilities.''
A SPACE FOR THE COMMUNITY
The court is also open to the local community. The school will use the court for inclusive sports sessions, primary school events and activities with other schools. From the end of this year, a teacher at the school will also be trained as a Cruyff Foundation Coach, helping to deliver activities and keep the court active.
Richard Jones, Assistant Headteacher at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, said: "Shane Williams has a longstanding connection to the Amman Valley and is passionate about creating opportunities for children through sport. His support reinforces the project's ambition to become a regional centre of excellence for inclusive sport and youth development. Ultimately, the Special Cruyff Court will be a place where barriers are removed, potential is unlocked, and lives are positively changed for many years to come”.
This project is supported by TREAT Trust Wales, the Baily Thomas Charitable Fund, Reech Sports & Play and the Police and Crime Commissioner. All projects in the UK are made possible thanks to funds raised by players of the Postcode Lottery. Players have raised over £4m to support the work of the Cruyff Foundation across Great Britain.
Photos: Ione Saizar