England and Manchester City star Jack Grealish has become a principal Ambassador for Special Olympics GB to raise awareness of the sporting opportunities available for people with a learning disability.
The footballer whose sister Holly has cerebral palsy said he wanted to use his platform to create a positive change, and it had to be something really close to his heart.
He added: “Special Olympics GB is such an important organisation, playing a huge role in tackling the lack of inclusion for hundreds of thousands of kids in the UK with intellectual disabilities.
“Nobody should be excluded from opportunities, and I can’t stand bullying or discrimination. In my new role with Special Olympics GB, I’m proud to stand side-by-side with all the children, young people and adults living with intellectual disabilities, and the incredible families who support them. I hope that everyone in Great Britain gets behind Special Olympics GB and its incredible athletes and volunteers. Together we can start to make a real difference.”
Special Olympics GB provides year-round training and competition, in both summer and winter sports, for children and adults of all abilities with intellectual disabilities. It aims to drive inclusion and create possibilities for all individuals to be accepted regardless of ability or disability.
The charity has announced growth plans for 2022 including the Special Olympics GB Summer Series of Sport which runs from June to September. It will be the largest celebration of intellectual disability sport in Great Britain with a brand-new format.
2023 will also be a big year for Special Olympics GB with the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin next June.
Colin Dyer, CEO of Special Olympics GB said: “Everyone at Special Olympics is delighted and excited Jack has agreed to join Special Olympics GB as a principal Ambassador. After a truly challenging time for many people during the pandemic, particularly those with intellectual disabilities, there is so much positive momentum in Special Olympics GB at this time, it is the perfect moment to welcome Jack to the family. We look forward to continuing to add to our diverse group of Ambassadors to accompany Jack on his new mission with Special Olympics GB in the near future.”
