Spirit Community Foundation Stories
Everton in the Community
October 10, 2024
Everton Amputees have secured back-to-back IKO National Amputee Football League titles.
The Blues reclaimed their crown after defeating both Portsmouth and Chelsea to be named champions for the second year in a row.
The pivotal moment came on the final day of the season as a draw against Portsmouth secured the title by a three-point margin.
The point not only maintained Everton’s position at the top of the league table, but also qualifies the squad for next season’s prestigious Champions League competition.
The IKO EAFL is managed by the England Amputee Football Association, who provide a platform for amputees, individuals with congenital limb deficiencies, and those with limb-impacting disabilities to play football at both grassroots and international levels.
Last season’s triumph also earned the Blues their first European football appearance since 2019, joining league winners from Turkey, Poland, Spain, France, Georgia, Italy, and the Republic of Ireland.
The Champions League, held over a single weekend in Sassuolo, Italy, saw Everton Amputees proudly represent the Club and Everton in the Community, finishing 5th in the highly competitive tournament.
The Blues’ manager, Mark Dolan, reflected on the team’s journey this season, saying: “It’s been mixed emotions for us this season as we entered the final day of the league. With our main rivals Portsmouth already having cup success earlier in the season against us, this game had that little bit of extra edge to it.
“The lads performed well and stuck to the game plan, enabling us to get the point we needed to secure the title for the second season in a row. To defend our title is something we are extremely proud of.
“Although we can be proud of a 5th place finish in this seasons Champions League in Italy, we feel that more can come from this squad – so the work starts now in preparation for next seasons European competition.”
Everton Amputees, along with 12 Everton in the Community disability teams, receive vital support from The Spirit Foundation. Founded by philanthropist and lifelong Evertonian, Professor Ian Kilbride, the foundation is dedicated to giving back through initiatives focused on education, community support and wildlife protection.
This season marks yet another milestone for Everton Amputees, who continue to inspire communities with their significant achievements on the pitch.
Read the original article here.
