Zara, aged 15, had a challenging start to life. Born at 32 weeks, she immediately faced medical complications that resulted in cerebral palsy. The condition affects her mobility and speech, meaning Zara requires daily intensive verbal physiotherapy sessions. Zara sometimes struggles to build relationships with people her own age, with communication being a major barrier. However, with her supportive home life, the backing of her devoted family, and her love of football, Zara has become a determined and resilient young lady through the Premier League Inclusive Kicks programme.

Zara, a frame user, has developed significantly through our sessions in Cardiff, where she has attended for four years. Initially starting with one-to-one support from Community Foundation coaches, Zara has, over time, become more confident and independent. Through her passion for the beautiful game, she has grown into a fearless goalkeeper, unfazed by anything that comes her way.

Zara attends sessions twice a week, sometimes alongside her younger brother, Rishi, who lives with a heart condition. Rishi had an ICD fitted, that limited his pace and strength in football which meant he was let go from similar clubs, but knowing how much coaches has supported Zara with her condition, Premier League Inclusive Kicks was a no brainer.

Family is very important to Zara, and together they have found that football offers a valuable opportunity to come together and unwind in a safe, supportive space. It allows them to learn, stay active, and share a passion that brings them and their friends closer, no matter the obstacles they face.

Inclusive Kicks is a disability football programme that improves wellbeing, develops confidence and increases social interaction. Through our sessions, we aim to ensure every child is given the opportunity to experience the benefits of taking part in regular sport.

Zara is well known within the group and has developed a strong bond with the coaches, who look forward to seeing her walk through the door every week. She brings a cheeky, lively energy and makes her mark on every activity in her own unique way. Each session has given Zara the opportunity to meet new people her age at her own pace, while continuing to grow her love for football and all things Cardiff City FC.

Premier League Kicks complements Zara's intensive physiotherapy programme, supporting both her physical and mental wellbeing. The sessions provide a fun and engaging environment where she can develop her football skills while improving her mobility. They also create valuable opportunities for Zara to interact with children her own age, helping to develop her communication skills as she uses football-related terminology and language in a natural social setting.

To support Zara's participation, we focused on making thoughtful considerations rather than adaptations. Inclusive Kicks is all about active participation, teamwork, and the development of important life skills through fun and engaging football-based activities.

By working in smaller groups, Zara is able to communicate in ways that are comfortable for her, using short verbal responses or gestures. This helps her actively contribute to the game while developing communication and teamwork skills, a crucial skill for any goalkeeper!

Over the last four years, we have had the privilege of watching Zara grow in ability, but in confidence, resilience and self-belief. Her dedication has been recognised through opportunities to represent Cardiff City as a mascot at both Cardiff City FC and Cymru fixtures, achievements that reflect the determination she brings to life.

Today, Zara is looking towards an exciting future. Having recently completed her first GCSE examinations, she now aspires to continue her education in sport. Zara has begun a wheelchair training course, continuing to challenge herself and develop new skills. We are incredibly proud of everything she has achieved so far and look forward to seeing her continue to thrive, both on and off the pitch, as part of the Cardiff City FC Community Foundation family.

Zara's Dad, Dev Patel, reflected:

"Inclusive Kicks sessions have really helped Zara build confidence. The sessions are brilliant and she's always eager to attend even when it’s cold and wet. Every coach has made a true effort at making sure that Zara and children at the sessions feel involved and a part of a family."

Jamie Thomas, Premier League Kicks coordinator, added:

“Zara is everything Premier League Kicks is all about. We’ve given her a place to grow, be completely herself and become a real team player. We watched her walk through our doors at just 11 years old, and she has gone from strength to strength ever since.

We’re delighted to have Zara’s family so engaged with and supportive of our sessions and we’re proud to be a lifeline for them through both the good times and the more challenging ones.”