The Foundation and MUDSA have a long-standing relationship, which has gone from strength-to-strength during the Covid-19 pandemic, thanks to mutual support and initiatives such as the weekly exercise classes for members like Richard.
Manchester United Foundation has always been proud to work closely with the Manchester United Disabled Supporters' Association (MUDSA) in order to support disabled participants and offer opportunities such as football tournaments and a pathway for young players to become members.
Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, the two organisations have taken their partnership to the next level by offering a weekly exercise class, hosted by coaches from the Foundation’s disability and inclusion team for MUDSA members, every Wednesday morning, since the first UK lockdown period in March 2020.
Richard Haselgrove, a huge United fan and MUDSA member for over 25 years, has only missed one session during this time, and credits the classes and coaches for boosting his physical and mental health through this difficult period.
“My main hobby is football. My father took me to Old Trafford for the first time in 1968 when I was nine. I remember we played Newcastle and we won 6-0 – George Best got a hat-trick and I’ve never forgotten it,” said Richard (pictured).
Today, Chris Boardman, Chair of Sport England, set off on his 8-day bike ride from Manchester to Paris.
Investment from NHS Greater Manchester is worth £2m over the next three years to March 2027.
Pedal for Paris will start in Greater Manchester next week.