Leighton Linslade's Yes we Can Campaign

Rotary Club member Richard Johnson OBE noticed a lack of sports available in the local area for the disabled community.

As keen sportsman Richard and colleagues Nick Inwards & Peter Banwell conceptualised on the idea of creating a football team to include all disabilities. After discussing with fellow members of the Leighton-Linslade Rotary, it was full steam ahead and with that ‘The Buzzards’ were created. A dynamic, inclusive football team that brings together all walks of life.

Richard Johnson OBE said, “Rotary are delighted to have secured such a prestigious company as FAI to be our partner in providing Football within the “Yes We Can” Disability Sports Initiative. In FAI & MK Dons SET we have two highly professional organisations with vast experience in delivering excellence, which will ensure the best opportunities for those with a Disability in our very own Buzzards Football Program”

The Buzzards are a part of the MK Dons sports education trust, so they get great opportunities such as; training with MK Dons coaches, attending matches and playing in the ‘Bobi’ league with other MK Dons Set teams.

FAI were invited to attend a MK Dons match to launch the sponsorship, the day was a roaring success. At half time senior members of FAI headed down to the pitch to present ‘The Buzzards’ with a cheque amount of £10,500 for a three-year sponsorship. The sponsorship will go towards the team’s new kit and general running of the club.

FAI’s Finance Director, Peter Guinn said “It is both an honour and a pleasure to sponsor such a well deserving team. They are an inspiration to us all. The Rotary Club of Leighton & Linslade achieve fantastic things within our local community, and by partnering up with MK Dons they are making a real difference to young people and adults that would otherwise never have been possible”

At the end of the match, FAI attendees headed down to the ballroom of the stadium for a chance to meet the Buzzards and for (of course) a much-anticipated photo opportunity.

Junior Finance Director for FAI, Jennifer Elliott – Rowe had this to say, “it’s such a great day and what a way to celebrate the sponsorship. Meeting the team has been a real highlight for me, they are a credit to all involved in the initiative.”  

The official sponsorship launch was a day to be remembered and will remain a highlight in FAI’s rich heritage.