Arsenal's Commitment to Inclusive Football Experiences
Arsenal Football Club is leading the way in enhancing matchday experiences for disabled supporters through innovative partnerships and dedicated services. In collaboration with Game Day Vision, the Premier League club is ensuring that fans with various conditions can enjoy football seamlessly, from travel to commentary.
Personal Stories of Accessibility and Support
Thomas Clements, an Arsenal fan born with cerebral palsy, recalls his first trip to Highbury in 1995 with vivid enthusiasm. Sitting on his father's shoulders in the North Bank, he now uses a mobility scooter and praises Arsenal's disabled supporters' lounge for making matchdays effortless. "Without these little extra touches, the matchday experience wouldn't be what it is," Clements says, highlighting the club's proactive approach to accessibility.
Andrew Birch, founder of Game Day Vision, initiated the service after noticing gaps in support for visually impaired fans at events like concerts. His company now assists fans from home or stations, with volunteers like Tony Saunders providing companionship and aid. Birch notes, "Everyone needs bespoke help," and the service has expanded to include various disabilities beyond sight impairment.
Specialist Services and Community Engagement
Daniel Bailey, chair of the Arsenal Disabled Supporters' Association, benefits from Game Day Vision and specialist audio commentary by Alan March Sport. "Football is my escapism," Bailey shares, appreciating the detailed descriptions tailored for blind and visually impaired fans. The association, with nearly 600 members, works closely with Arsenal to address issues and improve inclusivity.
On the commentary gantry, Manus Bonner-Tymms provides granular audio descriptions, focusing on players first and the ball second. This service, along with British Sign Language integration and tactile pathways at the Emirates Stadium, underscores Arsenal's holistic approach. Aaron Heskins, Arsenal's disability access manager, emphasizes collaboration with other clubs, stating, "We compete on the field but not off it."
Broader Impact and Future Initiatives
Arsenal's efforts include hearing loops on concourses, Bluetooth connectivity for cochlear implants, and an audio-only matchday programme. These initiatives, part of a broader Premier League push for inclusivity, are praised by fans like Clements, who even commends rivals Tottenham and West Ham for their access services. As clubs share ideas biannually, the goal remains clear: making football accessible for all, ensuring that disabled supporters feel both different and the same.
