Celebrating 10 Years of the Ability Suite

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DISABLED SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION

Celebrating 10 years of the Ability Suite 2003—2013 WeWe WILL follow United willfollowUnited Dedicated to everybody who has supported MUDSA over the years, with special his commemorative publication thanks to Manchester United and Vodafone who jointly funded the entire project Tcelebrates the tenth anniversary of the opening of the Ability Suite match day lounge which was established for disabled fans in April DISABLED SUPPORTERS 2003 at Old Trafford. ASSOCIATION The foundations of this unique facility lie in the formation of the Manchester United Disabled Supporters Association in December 1989. The association is supported both financially and spiritually by the football club all disabled fans including facilities which are and is the first of its kind in the world. regarded as second to none. DISABLED SUPPORTERS In recent years, Manchester As a result of this success, ASSOCIATION United has become the most disabled fans of other clubs successful club in English have been inspired to press football. This on-field for improved facilities at success has been mirrored their own clubs. by the achievements of the Enjoy the read. club’s disabled supporters who, working closely Mark Metcalf with the club, have built a Author, historian and supportive environment for freelance journalist.

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he Ability Suite was opened by Sir Alex decided to move the ticket office to a new purpose-built TFerguson on 5 April 2003 and it has been a facility on the north-west part of the ground. An empty huge success. space on the south-east quadrant thus became available This unique facility is a dedicated match day lounge for alternative use and just happened to be directly behind for disabled supporters and is located in the South East the main disabled supporters viewing area. quadrant of Old Trafford — the same area of the stadium With the support of the MUDSA committee, Secretary which provides the bulk of the accessible viewing facilities. It has an adapted kiosk with a low level counter, accessible toilets and large TV screens. Warm and comfortable is the only way to describe the environment that it provides for pre, mid and post-match relaxation and analysis. Access to the suite is at the B3 entrance which has a red disabled persons sign above it. Once inside, the generously wide corridor is suitable for all sizes of manual and powered wheelchairs, the users of which are automatically granted a free parking place in the The Ability Suite nearby large E2 car park. provides MUDSA The opportunity to create a members and their carers with a cosy match day lounge was made environment in possible by United’s on-field which to meet up, success. Sir Alex Ferguson’s chat, have a drink and even watch live side had become the first since match-day action Arsenal in the 1930s to win the Suite and replays on the top-flight title in three consecutive seasons with successes Phil Downs was determined to get the former ticket wall-mounted TVs in 1998-99, 1999-2000 and 2000-2001. office space put to use by Manchester United’s disabled In 2002, with match tickets at a premium, the Club supporters… dreams

4 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 55 dreams Suite dreams The Ability Suite I asked Building Services Manager, George Johnstone about this. I was opened by Sir could see that there may be potential for the idea to get off the Alex Ferguson on April 5, 2003. It has ground because the concourse area leading into the viewing an accessible level area directly above was always very congested before the match, cafe bar, space for Suite especially in bad weather. approximately 80 wheelchairs and The area, which includes a small police station, is where the emergency services carers, two large TVs are located. It meant that disabled fans might get in the way and be in danger if showing live action, there was an emergency. So as well as providing a great facility for our members I and seven accessible toilets. On non-match felt it would be an advantage in an operational context for the club. days it is used as an education facility.

MUDSA has grown to an unbelievable size over the years but the opening of the Ability Suite was probably the most significant milestone because it is a statement about how the club and the Manager support our disabled fans. Lyn Laffin, Sir Alex’s PA, even into retirement

Lyn looked after the disabled supporters when she first joined the club but the success under Sir Alex meant that she had other pressures to deal with. Organising and developing the growth of MUDSA into what it is today was handed over to Phil and almost 24 years later the bond between the club and MUDSA is stronger than ever!

The Ability Suite provides a service by being able to pull together a group of people with various different kinds of disability and encouraging them to interact. This is a marvellous feeling and to see what has been created is a dream for disabled fans who, as a result, can experience the same level and enjoyment of the beautiful game as everyone else.

6 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 77 Suite talk Likeanextendedfamily Every detail andProfessional issue has been covered with health and safety a priority, a space Her husband and carer, Terry, so people can talk football and social occasionally accompanies matters, discuss previous matches, share Gladys Wood to matches. As great moments, find out about away match travel and a wheelchair user she joined access arrangements. Nothing has been missed and it MUDSA before the Ability Suite is all carried out in a professional manner. was opened and she can recall how members were overjoyed Simon Smith, a Manchester United supporter when it was first opened: since 1970 and who, following an injury, became an amputee in 1985 and has since suffered with a It was not only serious back injury. great to have somewhere to Paul Rocca is a regular at Old Trafford and at Manchester shelter and keep United away games. He appreciates the facilities at the newly warm, but I got to know people built stadium of a north London club but, even so, he says: much better and, as a result, built a number of important They aren’t quite as good as United’s. There is I’m proud of the friendships. nothing in English football to rival the Ability facilities that we have Suite which is packed at every match with worked with the club Terry has seen the difference people with many different kinds of injuries and to create. I like the in his wife, saying: “As a result ailments. We don’t spend hours talking about them but we chance to relax in the Ability Suite of being able to come to the do share ideas on how to overcome them, how to work round and have a chat and make friends football, Gladys is a different them and how to live as active a life as possible. with people. Because the suite is so person. She is much more “Throw in the enjoyment of watching Manchester United close to the viewing platform I can cheerful and light hearted then there is a great atmosphere amongst those who use the keep warm until close to kick-off. and that means she does not Ability Suite. It is like an extended family. let her arthritis get her down, Ann-Marie Lewis, a MUDSA Shelterwhich can sometimes be the Paul’s wife, Sue, is the MUDSA treasurer and is also a regular committee member case in the summer when at matches. there is no football to watch.

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Faye Clarke is an ambulatory disabled Secure Overwhelmed MUDSA member. As a baby, Faye was photographed in the FA Cup that Shahid Iqbal was overwhelmed when Manchester United had won in 1990 by he first came to a game. He was badly beating Crystal Palace in the replayed injured by an electric shock as a young final. Faye has followed in her dad, Roy’s, boy but has refused to allow becoming footsteps by becoming a United fanatic. a paraplegic amputee get in the way Asked to describe the Ability Suite, and of building a successful career as a facilities that surround it, she was brief and graphic and web designer. His belief in to the point: God helped him through some dark moments and he states: They empower independence by removing barriers and I am a prisoner in my own creating a level playing field. body and I have to deal I would not be able to attend with it. If I do not then I will if that was not the case. The stewards at become bitter and twisted. I the matches are also just as good as the have seen the world as able-bodied and actual facilities and they are careful and have to live it as a disabled man. Going considerate if you need their support. to the match has helped me to increase “my self-confidence and belief. I’d give the Ability Suite 10 out of 10. I also think that, Empower because the club shows disabled fans respect by providing them with facilities as least as good as able-bodied fans, this impacts on the attitudes and actions of the latter. I have not made lots of friends The Ability Suite I would enjoy coming to the matches even without the at the football as I have my own circle of is a winner with Ability Suite, but it does make the experience even better mates outside of the sport but you can sit me. You can get as it is warm and secure. It has helped expand my circle in the suite and lap up the atmosphere a drink, sit down of friends considerably and I now often arrange to meet and excitement of fans meeting their and relax and chat to friends fellow fans outside of coming to see United play. I’d be frightened of friends before what we all hope is a great and fans of the opposing team. losing their companionship if I was unable to come to Old Trafford. match. Chris Grethe, a visually Dallas Chase impaired MUDSA member.

10 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 Winner MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 11 Suite talk Daniel Evans is 17 years old and has moderate learning difficulties. Coming to Old Trafford is the biggest thing in his week and he says: Sixteen Socialyear-old Sam Whitworth occasionSean Jeffrey is eighteen and is often one of the first to I from Stockport has cerebral palsy and arrive in the Ability Suite before a match. His dad, Tony, I feel safe in the Ability Suite and I like having some sweets hydrocephalus and as a result he has to More who is a Manchester United fanatic, accompanies him. and a drink in there while watching the earlier live games on walk very slowly. He is studying for eight Sean, who has learning difficulties, is a keen photographer feel the large televisions. GCSEs and hopes to be able to drive with and once the players come out to warm up he is quickly the aid of adaptations to the car. He would friendsout of the Ability Suite to the nearby disabled supporters like to be a chef when he starts work. He viewing platform to take photographs. He also takes snaps was told about MUDSA by a friend and he of the scoreboard each time United score and at half time thanks the organisation: and full-time. He keeps a folder for each game and Tony has safe “ witnessed how his son’s IT skills have improved immeasurably For helping me to watch my as a result. Sean’s confidence and independence has also favourite team by providing shot up. When the pair first visited Old Trafford together, facilities that turn each visit Tony was reluctant to leave Sean unaccompanied at any to Old Trafford into a social time. That’s no longer the case and Sean says: occasion. This has had the added advantage of bringing me into contact with other I like the Ability Suite and the facilities at Old Daniel’s mum, Julia, says: disabled people whose own experiences Trafford. As a result of being able to watch have taught me a lot and helped me United I have more friends, including Martin Daniel struggles in large appreciate how important good, accessible and Kevin. I have been able to go to some away crowds and therefore he facilities are for all disabled people. matches, but the facilities are never as good as at United. appreciates the chance to sit and wait before going up to watch a match. He also appreciates how helpful the security stewards are in making At just 13, Owen Clements is one of the youngest MUDSA members. He travels regularly with his dad, Paul, to his visit so enjoyable. When you have a matches at Old Trafford from his home in Mansfield. “‘hidden disability’ it is often the case that Owen has become something of a ‘minor celebrity’ amongst older members for his often frank engagement with people do not understand why you might the travelling away fans situated behind the viewing platform. He was born 13 weeks early and has subsequently be acting a bit strangely, which is why good had numerous operations in a battle that has seen him win the BBC Radio Nottingham Child of Courage Award. sympathetic stewarding is so important in He is a wheelchair user and he’s hoping to be a football commentator when he leaves school. Owen says: making my son feel safe.

I am pleased United and MUDSA have worked together so that disabled fans can watch matches at Old Daniel is a member of the Manchester Trafford. The Ability Suite is great place to come into after sitting in the car for a few hours. Coming here United disabled team for 16 to 25-year- makes me feel independent and I love watching United. olds and also enjoys training at the Cliff Independent training ground each week. 12 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 13 Suite talk New challenges As a youngster with no health problems, I was at Wembley in 1968 to see Manchester United win the European Cup and thanks to MUDSA I was also present when they won the Champions League in 1999 and 2008. It was a shock to hear MUDSA were chartering a plane to go to Barcelona in 1999 but the organisation has always Fantastic been outward looking and prepared to take on new challenges in order to widen members experiences. I can’t see the match but I listen to the sounds of the crowd and the match commentary at Old Trafford is very good as it always keeps you informed where the ball is. Gary McCoriston — a wheelchair user who is also registered blind. It is marvellous that he gets to come to the football as it takes away his worries view and as he goes with our son then it gives me an opportunity to relax. Ann — Gary’s wife and full-time carer.

I appreciate the fantastic view of the match, which combined with meeting so many other United fans makes for a great day. None of which would be possible for me if the club did not provide such great facilities NAmazedo-one can be certain what the future may hold but figures show for disabled people and their carers. The psychological one in four of today’s 20-year-olds will become disabled before benefits of being able to come to the game are enormous they retire. Chas Banks was an extremely fit successful pop “and my wife also benefits as it gives her a break from group manager when a scar on his spinal cord struck him down being my full-time carer. in September 1996. It took him a long time to come to terms with Mick Lee — a wheelchair user in the North Stand knowing he would need a wheelchair for the rest of his life. What Quadrant area at Old Trafford. helped was visiting Old Trafford as a MUDSA member. Pleasure I was amazed and inspired by seeing so many disabled Annette Struthers’ first visit to Old Trafford for the Ole Gunnar Solskjaer testimonial as a MUDSA people refusing to allow their disabilities to prevent wheelchair user saw her bypass the Ability Suite... them doing things. I saw Kevin Peek, who has brittle I didn’t know it existed so I went straight to the concourse. I now use the Suite before and after bone disease, lifted into the seat of his car and drive it matches. I enjoy the football but I also appreciate that coming to Old Trafford has widened away. That was brilliant. There are many MUDSA members who my circle of friends and activities. I’ve picked up new recipes, found out about new services come to the matches who have to overcome great pain. But once we for disabled people and places to visit and also shared problems with other disabled people. are here as a group of disabled people we can forget any concerns The club have also done an excellent job in creating facilities which are affordable to disabled people. I and passionately support our team. also know how much pleasure my husband and carer, Cameron, gets from coming to the games with me.

14 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 15 to with Travelling fans praise the Ability SuiteJustwanted say Iam Ability howimpressed the Suite Dear Sirs, organised and run disabled sections I have ever been in. All treated as well as at Old Trafford so many thanks to all the them so if any had missed the action whilst the able-bodied The Ability Suite is not matched at any other stadium I Dear Phil, I’m an Everton fan and I attended the recent game at Old the staff were great, loads of toilets, the Ability Suite with people involved. fans in front of them stood up, they could watch replays on have been to and by far exceeds the experience we had just What can I say — a simple ‘thank you’ Trafford. I want to commend MUDSA and the Club for access to a bar without being jumped all over is fantastic. Regards, Tony Penn. the little screens. I think it’s amazing that the club has taken one or two weeks later, when we were told we could not doesn’t cover the gratitude I owe to providing a first-class match day experience. Please pass my thanks on to all the staff. people’s abilities into consideration. get a cup of tea until half time as the only facilities near the you and your staff, as well as all at A wheelchair user myself, I have been All the best Pete. To Whom It May Concern, Finally, another thing that is of a high standard is disabled fans area were for home fans only! (The club shall Manchester United! to Old Trafford many times to watch I recently attended the Manchester United Vs Hull the Manchester United Ability Suite. It’s great to have a remain nameless!) The whole match day experience rugby union and Super City match at Old Trafford as a visiting disabled segregated disabled area to access refreshments and toilets. Probably though, the biggest plus for me is the allocated was perfect from the moment we League Grand Finals and I supporter. It’s warm in this area and with many TV screens it’s parked up right next to the stadium until we left cannot fault the facilities for Dear All, I am 15 years old, wheelchair bound and have a good place to stay comfortable pre-match. Also, after the game. disabled supporters. The A big ‘Thank You’ from two very grateful attended many Hull City games there are many toilets which cause fewer queues The disabled facilities available at your organisation is exemplary. home and away. I have visited throughout the match. Dear Phil, ground are better than at any venue I’ve ever Crawley Town fans to everyone who helped I just want to say thanks to you and anyone From the moment I enter the ground the make our visit to Old Trafford such a fabulous many poor stadiums over the Overall, I fully enjoyed my visit to Old Trafford been to — and I’m talking about everywhere stewarding is friendly and helpful. My first visit years but I have to admit that Old and was pleased that Hull City managed to give else who is involved and who contributes to the from the fanciest of restaurants to major experience last Saturday! atmosphere in the disabled facilities area at DISABLED to the Ability Suite was a real eye-opener — such The complementary tickets for myself (a Trafford is one of the best venues United a bit of a game which was more than most shopping centres, airports and tourist venues a wonderful facility to have. TV, refreshments, I have been to. I have been to Hull fans expected! Old Trafford which we experienced on Saturday just SUPPORTERSaround the world — and I’ve travelled! wheelie) and my helper were most appreciated - a great gone. ASSOCIATION warmth — everything you could wish for pre as was the guaranteed free parking. The Ability Suite is Old Trafford before to watch Kind Regards, Ryan Beckett. Your Ability Suite is the perfect place to match. a couple of England matches My son Patrick and his cousin had a brilliant day out. relax with a pie and a brew and I only wish idea and especially welcome on a cold day! The complementary ‘Rollin’ The set up truly is “five star”. The viewing platforms are excellent. So Reds’ magazine shows what a force MUDSA is within the club and but this was the first time I have watched Hull City Dear Phil, we had similar at St James’ Park for half time spacious and well laid out. Plus having toilet play there and there are many positives I found I just wanted to write and say I was truly moved to see what can be achieved for people who can’t get during those cold winter months. you really do achieve your aim of making it accessible and stress-free around as easily as others and as the father of a boy with cerebral palsy, facilities aplenty is a real bonus too. All in all, for disabled supporters. Everyone we met was friendly and helpful too. in terms of disabled facilities within the ground. how impressed I was with It is with the utmost sincerity that I offer a truly hassle free match day experience and Firstly, my family and I travelled from Hull to the disabled facilities at it has taken the pressure off me as I now know that in the future he’ll be my thanks and congratulations in organising I think we sang well at the match but have certainly sung your able to have good days out at Old Trafford, even if I’m not around. MUDSA must take great credit and personal praises since we got home! attend the match and had a reserved car parking Manchester United. such facilities and staffing them with such kind, satisfaction for the efforts you have made. space at the ground. Stadium access was easy I meant to write after What was really cool was how comfortable and ‘at home’ everyone felt. It DISABLEDfriendly people. Enjoy the rest of the season. was inspiring to see what can be achieved and I will now strive to get similar A shame about the result, but I don’t think Best wishes, Chris Cheshire & Barb Robinson. from here. attending last season’s league SUPPORTERS Yours sincerely, James Allerton. anyone expected a repeat of last season’s 4-4 epic! Secondly, we were met by a helpful and game, but unfortunately I did not facilities in venues in Ireland. ASSOCIATION Kind regards, Chris Smith friendly steward at the Stadium entrance who do so, so I promised myself I would write after Best regards, Jason Kelly (cork, Ireland) Dear MUDSA, took us to our seats and showed us where the attending our away game this season. I am just writing on behalf of Phil, toilets and refreshments were. It’s always nice to be greeted As a disabled fan I do not expect reduced ticket my disabled mother to offer Thanks for the tickets for last week’s Hi, by someone kind and helpful at the ground. prices, let alone free ones, but it is really appreciated. And parking. Parking is always the main headache when my thanks for use of your facilities at Old game. I thought that United were so Just wanted to say how impressed I am with Furthermore, once inside the ground and in our seats I know, as I am only able to work part time as a result of travelling away and you don’t know the area. So to have Trafford. good in the second half it gave us the Ability Suite and all the other disabled I found the view of the pitch to be excellent and had no my disability, it does help financially when ticket prices are allocated parking so close to the stadium is fantastic. After a long drive from London it’s great for Golden Boys no chance. facilities at Manchester United. problems watching the game. reduced. So, thank you once again and keep up the great her to be able to relax in the comfortable facilities Also, I have been to many grounds I am a disabled Aston Villa supporter and I had easy access to and from the refreshment kiosk The stewards were all incredibly friendly and helpful, service... I’ll let Manchester United be ‘top of the league’ of the Ability Suite before the game and to safely get a hot around the country and I think I can safely was at the game last Sunday. (Ability Suite) and I also noticed that the disabled from the first one we met at car park E2 to everyone in the on this one!! drink away from the crowds before we set off home. say that Wednesday night was one of the best I travel to most of the away games and have never been supporters on the lower levels had TV screens in front of Ability Suite and those who showed us to our seating. Thanks, Hannah Selman (Reading FC season ticket holder) Many thanks to all involved, Rob and Felicity Havers.

16 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 17 David Gill Alloursupportersareimportantto usbutwehavea relationship special with All our supporters David Gill at the MUDSA 2011 Annual Dinner with are important to Chas Banks, Mark Jones, members Gary Neville, Gary Marshall us but we have a and Phil Downs special relationship of with members of MUDSA David Gill — Former Manchester United Chief Executive MUDSA s Finance Director for three years and then how they have enjoyed being at these and other events AChief Executive at Manchester United organised by MUDSA. from 2000 onwards, David Gill has built up a “It was great to be able to find the space for the professional and personal relationship with Ability Suite inside Old Trafford and to get support from MUDSA and its members. He left his post in the Vodaphone to install up-to-date technology. The number summer of 2013, but in his new role as a non- of letters I have seen from fans of visiting clubs that praise executive director he has stated his intention the facility is a key indicator that it has been a success. to continue his commitment to improving The tenth anniversary of the opening of the Ability Suite facilities for the club’s disabled fans. is worth commemorating and it will be a special occasion David says: “It has been a constant part of my roles at the when MUDSA celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2014. club to work with MUDSA. We have developed a very good support to pay for a carer for the MUDSA secretary, Phil to Barcelona, Moscow and Rome for Champions League “The club remains committed to continuing its healthy, working relationship with experienced and committed Downs, enabling a representative of the club to play a finals in 1999, 2008 and 2009. working relationship with MUDSA in order to improve MUDSA committee members. The organisation has space role in improving facilities and attitudes elsewhere at other “Sir Alex Ferguson is a big fan of MUDSA and has, like facilities for disabled fans in the future.” in the Manchester United Foundation Offices on Sir Matt locations and grounds. myself, welcomed the chance to attend the Annual Dinner Busby Way. There are funds for a paid worker as well as “We were glad to be able to part-fund MUDSA trips and Christmas Party. Many of the players have also said David Gill was interviewed by Mark Metcalf in March 2013.

18 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 19 The good old days I have been a regular Theat Old Trafford for a old very long time and the days he opening of the Ability Suite was the not especially conducive to creating facilities for disabled goodthere to literally prevent serious injury Christmas Party. Grasping the opportunity to those disabled fans given a chance to meet their heroes Tproduct of many years of joint work lasting friendships between disabled fans. fans were initially very poor and by being caused by someone losing control of bring people together Phil had some leaflets couldn’t stop talking about it for weeks afterwards. between MUDSA and MUFC. This work being level with the pitch you could their wheelchair . The dangers inherent in printed and handed them out at matches When Lyn popped the question about ‘what next’, has continued since then and in 2014 the IMPROVEMENTS see very little. The toilets provided this system were illustrated by the bruises leading up to the party which was held in a a small group got together in February 1990 to discuss relationship will be 25 years old. A special In the wake of the Hillsborough back then were a token gesture. suffered by these unfortunates! café on the corner of what, curiously, later setting up a permanent organisation. The name — brochure will be published to mark the tragedy, in which 96 Liverpool fans Ian Falla The message was that the key to improving became the Ability Suite. Manchester United Disabled Supporters Association — occasion but in this section we take a very lost their lives, the Taylor Report facilities depended upon better communication Sandwiches and refreshments were followed automatically. Kevin Peek was persuaded to brief look at how the two organisations have recommended that major football between the club and its disabled supporters. Kath Phipps arranged for ordered by Lyn while Kath Phipps, who become the first Chairman, Rose Cullum became Treasurer worked closely together to improve facilities stadia should become all seater. All grounds would their disabled fans. Sadly these proved to be downright Soon after, in 1989, a golden opportunity arose the players to attend the nowadays, is the Receptionist at the Aon and Phil the Secretary, a role he has fulfilled ever since. Christmas parties for United’s disabled fans. need to offer improved facilities and MUFC began the scary with a 90-degree turn at the bottom of the ramp when Alex Ferguson’s personal assistant and Training Complex, arranged for some of the An agreement was made to draw up a constitution 1989-90 season by building new platform facilities for meaning that a steward was strategically positioned MUFC’s link to disabled fans, Lyn Laffin, suggested to Phil a players to attend. Everyone present had a great time and and formalise the existing committee. Every member Letter in the post of the committee was When Phil Downs was forced to return home after asked to come to the breaking his neck, aged 18, during training to become a CURRENT (2013) MUDSA COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Annual General Meeting Metropolitan Police Officer, he longed to be able to take up at which people effectively again his passion of following the Reds. nominated themselves. Letters were sent to Old Trafford and he waited and It was arranged that the waited and waited. Five years, in fact, before he was invited dozen appointees would to the final three games of the Dave Sexton era that ended include a representative on April 30 1981. Sexton was out and Phil was in! from each of the different Wheelchair users at this time came into the ground categories of disabilities as through the staff entrance. They then journeyed along well as people with specific the tunnel that passed the players dressing rooms before skills such as an event’s emerging in front of the current dugout where Sir Alex organiser, a bookkeeper Ferguson sat for many years. They then took a spot on a and someone good with specially concreted platform onto which 15-20 wheelchairs words. It was also agreed were squeezed along with their helpers who stood to include a carer/helpers throughout the match. As the Old Trafford pitch had a representative on the crown back then, it meant that those in wheelchairs could Phil Downs, MBE Sue Rocca Chas Banks Des Turner Nigel Taylor Anne-Marie Lewis Andy Wild Liz Edwards Jamie Leeming committee, as practical not see the touchline on the North/Sir Alex Ferguson Stand Secretary Treasurer, Chair Social events organiser Rollin’ Reds Editor Visually Impaired Rep Social Events/Memorabilia Memorabilia Quadrant Rep MUDSA Publications help in getting to the side of the pitch, nor the ball if it was below the player’s match is essential for the knees on that side of the pitch. vast majority of MUDSA Refreshment facilities were nonexistent and any chance MUDSA has always tried to shy away from being elitist and has taken the decision that a rotating Chair is best. Nigel Taylor, who is now retired after working for The committee is a good eclectic mix of people and it’s a pleasure to know members. The changes of having a brew meant bringing it yourself! Toilet facilities This effectively means the Chair is passed around existing Committee members on an annual basis to include many organisations as a rehabilitation officer with them. But there are responsibilities to be undertaken and people are given meant the MUDSA consisted of the use of a toilet in a tiny room used as everyone except the Secretary. visually impaired people, believes: tasks and expected to complete them. committee became much storage space for cleaning materials. Such facilities were more professional in its approach.

20 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 21 The We wish it could be Christmas every day! Christmashe first event organised by Twhat became MUDSA was the 1989 Christmas Party, an idea first proposed by Sir Alex Ferguson’s personal assistant Lyn Laffin. The event has grown in size and statureparty and the 2012 Party witnessed the largest turnout ever by the players. The 2014 party will be extra special as it will be the 25th such occasion.

It’s the least we can do by attending this party as the people here must face additional difficulties getting to the games and so can be counted amongst our most passionate fans. Paul Scholes

22 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 2323 The We wish it could be Christmas every day! Love Christmas This is one of the events that all the players really love to attend. party Rio Ferdinand

It’s great to see people enjoying themselves and it’s an honour to sign the memorabilia they bring along. I am aware of the facilities for disabled people as the box where my family watches the game is near the concourse “area. My wife’s sister is a wheelchair user and so it’s great to see facilities for It is a pleasure to meet some familiar faces wheelchair users being widely available at and to hear that the facilities for disabled Old Trafford. fans at Old Trafford are possibly the best Wayne Rooney in Britain. Darren Fletcher Not long after Wayne was interviewed, his wife, Coleen, lost her sister. Rosie Pleasure McLaughlin, 14, who had Rett syndrome, died in Liverpool on January 5 2013. MUDSA extends its condolences to all Tradition Rosie’s family and friends. UDSA’s Ann-Marie Lewis and William MCamden presented Wayne Rooney with the MUDSA player of the year. He adds his name to an illustrious list including Darren Fletcher, Chicharito, Nemanja Vidic, Gary It is a player’s tradition that we come to Neville, David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, Andrew this event. Cole, Ruud Van Nistelrooy and all the way back to Nemanja Vidic Paul Ince plus, of course, the entire squad in 1999 as tribute to their winning the Treble.

24 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 2525 Christmas parties from years gone by More often than not, Sir Alex has attended the party with the players to chat, sign memorabilia and entertain Ruud the crowd with a Years Christmas message Ole gone Verón by

Clockwise from top-left: Ruud van Nistelrooy, Juan Sebastián Verón, Ole Gunnar Solskjær, Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani and Chicharito, David Beckham, Beckham Diego Forlan Nani

Diego Ronaldo Chicharito 26 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 2727 Stadium development improves facilities

anchester United’s resurgence in the M1990s sent United’s popularity rocketing. In 1995 the North Stand (renamed the Sir Alex Ferguson stand in 2013) was reconstructed but the increase in

The East Stand redevelopment in capacity to 55,000 was still not enough. A second tier was 2000 gave disabled added to the scoreboard end (East Stand) and opened in fans a new home — a purpose-built January 2000, raising the capacity to 61,000. elevated platform in The extra numbers included more disabled fans when the southeast corner the section that previously accommodated them was of Old Trafford

28 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 2929 Stadium development improves facilities moved from the South Stand to a newly elevated platform in the East Stand. Only HuddersfieldT own at their ground, the John Smith’s Stadium which was opened in 1994, had previously provided an elevated spot for those in wheelchair users to follow the action. The area for disabled fans accommodates 120 wheelchair users plus their carers, 42 seats with additional leg room for ambulant fans who have significant mobility issues but do not yet need to use a wheelchair and 36 pairs of tickets for those who simply require easy access seating due to moderate mobility difficulties. In 2005 Manchester United began a further expansion at Old Trafford with the addition of second tiers to both the

northeast and northwest quadrants of the ground, creating an additional sixteen wheelchair spaces in the process. The 2005 stadium expansion in the north-east and A record attendance of 76,098 was recorded when north-west quadrants took Old Trafford’s capacity to United beat Blackburn Rovers 4-1 on 31 March 2007. more than 76,000 and created 16 addition wheelchair spaces with some of the best views in world football

30 | CELEBRATINGMUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF 10 THE YEARS ABILITY OF THE SUITE ABILITY | 2003-2013 SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING2003-2013 |10 CELEBRATING YEARS OF THE 10 ABILITY YEARS OF SUITE THE 2003-2013 ABILITY SUITE |31 3131 Visually impaired supporters’The facilities bring theaction anchester United provides visually headsets all Mimpaired supporters with radio headsets in the main viewing area and also other parts of the stadium if need be. This is their means of receiving MUTV’s match commentary which alive these days is called a ‘Simulcast’ because it goes out over the Manchester United website and through the VI sound systems simultaneously. Additional information for visually impaired fans comes by way of a free match day programme on audio CD. The VI section also has unique facility which allows individual

Emma Simister is 22 and visually impaired. Diagnosed as a child with cerebral palsy it was on the suggestion of her physiotherapist that she first considered joining MUDSA and going to games at Old Trafford.

I listen to the game on the headsets and it brings the action alive. You have a visual expectation and you can get to sense when the ball is close to the opposition goal. I love the atmosphere at Old VI supporters to bring along their own hand-held Trafford and being at the matches makes you forget ordinary, LCD monitors which can be connected to the inputs everyday problems. That’s the case for all fans, disabled and able-bodied. beneath each seat.

32 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 3333 its MUDSA connecting with its members UDSA has a long tradition of connecting connectingwith Mwith its members away from Old members MUDSATrafford and this continues to evolve as new technologies and media become available. Rollin’ Reds was launched as a homemade, stapled- together newsletter in the 1997-98 season and sixteen years later it has evolved into a 28-page glossy magazine with a print run of 500 copies per edition. It is distributed freely and continues to keep MUDSA members up to date with activities on and off the field with each edition carrying an interview with a current player and a summary of recent matches and MUDSA events. Rollin’ Reds was the first ever magazine published by a disabled football supporters’ organisation. On November 1 2002, MUDSA was also the first organisation of its kind to set up its own website: www.mudsa.org and Sir Alex Ferguson was amongst more than 400 people who came along to mark the occasion. Rollin’ Reds was the first of Nowadays, MUDSA also reaches out to members using its kind and has evolved over Facebook. It’s a convenient way of informing members of 15 years from a handmade newsletter to a glossy magazine upcoming events as well as the match ticket application windows: www.facebook.com/MUDSA.official MUDSA Committee member, Steve Crompton, put together the first MUDSA website MUDSA can be contacted via the following channels: back in the mid 1990s when people accessed the web using 56K dial-up modems.It Telephone: 0845 230 1989 was always accompanied by that unforgettable weird buzzing noise but in the 21st Email: [email protected] century we now have an updated MUDSA website which simply grows and grows. One of the founding members of MUDSA, Steve Crompton sadly died in 2012.

34 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 MUDSA CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE ABILITY SUITE 2003-2013 3535 DISABLED SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION

Photography: Mark Harvey iD8 | Design and production: leemingdesign.co.uk

DISABLED SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION