Knowle FC Launches Inclusive “Just Be You” Football Programme

A group of young football players in ref or orange football shirts are huddled around two coaches at Knowle Football Club

Knowle Football Club Launches Inclusive “Just Be You” Football Programme as Part of FA’s Comets & Disability Initiative

Knowle Football Club, one of the largest grassroots football organisations in Solihull, is proud to announce the launch of its new inclusive football programme, “Just Be You”, as part of the FA’s National Comets & Disability initiative. The sessions, designed for neurodiverse children and young people with non-visible disabilities, will begin this August at the Draintech Community ground, Knowle FC’s home ground on Hampton Road.

 The “Just Be You” programme aims to provide a fun, safe and non-competitive environment where children can enjoy football at their own pace. Whether they are new to the game or looking for a more supportive space to continue their journey, the sessions focus on wellbeing, inclusion, and enjoyment over competition.

Sessions will run every Saturday from 12–1pm starting 2nd August 2025, with a potential second session from 1–2pm depending on demand. The club is offering age-specific booking options for 5–11 and 12–16-year-olds, ensuring tailored support and engagement for all participants.

Stuart Lanyon, Chairman of Knowle FC, said: “We want everyone to feel welcome at Knowle FC. The launch of our ‘Just Be You’ programme and our involvement in the FA initiatives is about more than football,  it’s about inclusion, support and joy. We’re building a space where every child feels seen, valued, and free to just be themselves.”

The FA’s Comets & Disability initiative, launched nationally by the Football Association and locally supported by Birmingham County Football Association, is part of a wider mission to make the game accessible for all young people, especially those who might not otherwise find a place in traditional football environments.

 Booking Links:

Ages 5–11: https://bit.ly/KJBY5-11

Ages 12–16: https://bit.ly/KJBY12-16

young football players on the bench watching a game with their coach, a team of