iCanPlay: Dan Rigby Q&A
Tell us about how and why you got involved in playing Powerchair Football?
I got involved whilst I was still in primary school as other disability sports such as Boccia were boring to me and didn't excite me enough, and because of the poor use of my left hand I could never compete at a decent level at manual wheelchair sports.
My mum heard about a Powerchair Football Club in Leeds, so I gave it a try and enjoyed it.
Who have you played Powerchair Football for and who do you play for now?
I started playing for Leeds Powerchair Football Club and have been there almost 8 years now.
I also played in a Home Nations Cup for England recently.
Dan playing for Leeds Powerchair Football Club
What do you enjoy about playing football?
I love being able to compete with other people and I love playing football with my friends in my team.
Who are your role models in football?
My brother is my role model.
From an early age I watched him kick a football about and it's all I've ever wanted to be able to do.
So when Powerchair football came along, it has given me that outlet to be able to do what he does in my own way.
Dan winning the European Powerchair Football Association Home Nation Cup
What are your greatest achievements in playing football and why?
My greatest achievements so far have been getting onto the National Talent Pathway and winning the European Powerchair Football Association Home Nations Cup with England.
What are your goals for the future?
I would love to continue to play at the highest level I can, and I'd love to be invited back to represent England once again.
I would also love to coach a team through the Nationals and enable the team to develop into the best players they can be.
What are the biggest obstacles you have faced in playing football?
Balancing my normal teenage need to stay up all night gaming, and knowing that I have to look after myself, get plenty of sleep drink lots of water and eat well to make sure I play my best.
Football always wins, of course!
Who’s had the biggest influence on you as a footballer and why?
Paul Gorman has been a huge influence on me.
He has been my coach since I started and has always supported and encouraged me to be my best.
He has taught me the skills & techniques required to become the Powerchair Footballer I am today.
He also has taught me the importance of how to maintain an open mind set during training and games.
iCanCoach: Paul Gorman Q&A
What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting involved in disability/powerchair football?
Find a team and go and try it.
You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.