Sheffield Wednesday

Sheffield Wednesday stars put their skills to the ultimate test when they played in a penalty shootout with a difference… doing it blind!  

Anthony Gardner, Martin Taylor and Lewis Buxton gained firsthand experience of what it’s like to be partially sighted and how it would affect their lives when SWFC and the Sheffield Royal Society of the Blind held a community support day.

The players sported blindfolds and sim-specs, to simulate different sight loss conditions, as they joined in a penalty shootout and learnt the art of specialised sport goalball from young experts. 

Gardner said: “Meeting the kids and seeing them play with such ease was an extraordinary experience because unless you try it you can never really understand how difficult it is.

“The SRSB are doing a great job and Sheffield Wednesday are very proud to support their work across the city.” 

Fundraising Manager for the society Sue Coggin said: “Wednesday were fantastic; the players demonstrated how important they feel working in the community is for both the club and themselves as individuals.

“Not only was it a great day out for the youngsters, but also a fantastic opportunity for players and clients alike to learn more about sight loss and the prevention efforts of SRSB.”

The charity has launched an appeal to raise £50,000 for a mobile information unit to help them raise awareness about eye health.

Sue added: “More than 50 per cent of sight loss can be avoided, so it’s really important that people can easily access advice on how to look after their eyes.

“The unit will allow us to visit libraries, shopping centers, schools, businesses and care homes and make information available to the people of Sheffield."

For information and support on sight loss in Sheffield please click here.