RNC Hereford set to host international blind football tournament alongside community festival

An unmissable day of top-flight blind football, fun activities and food, for families, fans and anyone who loves the beautiful game.

Pictured: RNC Hereford v Cécifoot Charleroi - RNC's Eesa Amjid on the ball weaving his way through two Charleroi defenders on his way to levelling the score Photo credit: Will Cheshire Photography
 
The Royal National College for the Blind (RNC) is delighted to announce that it will be hosting the third round of this season’s European Blind Football League (EBFL) on Saturday 30 March 2024, at its state-of-the-art facility thePoint4 in Hereford.

RNC Hereford represents the nation as the sole contender in this League, and after finishing runners-up in the competition’s inaugural season, their sights are firmly set on securing the coveted title this year.

This season’s participating teams are Bondy Cécifoot Club (France), Borussia Dortmund (Germany), Cécifoot Charleroi (Belgium), ASDD Roma (Italy), Pirsos Thessaloniki (Greece), and RNC Hereford (England).

Adam Bendall, RNC Hereford’s Head Coach, brings a wealth of experience and said:

'This tournament is a fantastic opportunity for RNC’s talented young team to gain playing experience and compete on an international stage. Blind football is a fast-paced and exciting sport, and this tournament is a showcase for the some of the best talent in Europe. We're proud to be able to host this event, open our doors to the public and raise awareness of the sport.'

In addition to the international fixtures, we are holding a family festival of football and everyone is invited to get involved in some fun activities and enjoy food provided by some great local entrepreneurs.

Herefordshire Football Association (HFA) is also supporting the event. HFA’s Football Development Officer, Scott Russell, said:

‘I’m delighted that Herefordshire FA will be supporting the European Blind Football League at RNC and thePoint4. To have an international event being held in Herefordshire is a brilliant opportunity to showcase to everyone just what great facilities they have, and that Herefordshire is the perfect venue to host a successful footballing event.

‘What I am most excited about is that anyone on the day will be given the opportunity to try different forms of blind sports for themselves, such as Goalball and Blind Football, as we collectively look to breakdown social barriers towards disability football. This promises to be a fun family festival day as well as getting to watch highly competitive matches in the European Blind Football League.’

As with last year, the games will be streamed live to fans across Europe, courtesy of CJP Broadcast Service Solutions Ltd, based in Whitchurch, near Ross-on- Wye.

Mark your calendars for Saturday 30 March 2024 and be part of this extraordinary celebration of international football, inclusivity and talent.

While the Festival of Football is free to all, tickets will need to be purchased to watch the matches, as seating is limited. For more details and to purchase match tickets click here.