Promoting inclusivity through sport: Como 1907 and LINKS join forces with the belief that ‘football belongs to everyone’

“To have fun, to express one’s talents, to grow in independence, this is our mission for our athletes. Becoming part of the Como 1907 family two years ago marked a significant turning point for the project.” explains Manuel, a volunteer and coordinator for the football team affiliated with Como 1907 under LINKS.

LINKS is a voluntary association that supports families by dedicating quality free time to children with disabilities. It operates in the region with the goal of fostering inclusion through sport and fun.

“We participate in a 7-a-side FIGC football league dedicated to people with disabilities, under the Experimental Paralympic Football Division, a tournament dedicated to people with disabilities in which 250 teams from 17 regions take part, with over 4,000 members including players, coaches and managers.”

Since its foundation, LINKS has made remarkable progress. Initially, the association organised simple outings to engage people with disabilities through enjoyable activities in the city. Today, thanks to the work of all its volunteers and the support of local organisations, LINKS is involved in a football team affiliated with Como 1907, a basketball team, and boxing lessons facilitated by a professional MMA fighter.

“I’ve been playing here for six years now, and every time I’m with my teammates, I have fun and forget all my problems. Being part of Como 1907 captivates you, no matter where you come from, because Como makes you fall in love,” explains Ivan, a player on the LINKS team affiliated with Como 1907.

“Being part of this team means a lot to me. I believe teamwork is essential for achieving goals and creating a positive environment. It’s especially important because not everyone can afford to join a football team, and this provides an opportunity to learn new skills and improve existing ones through interactions with teammates.

“One of the most wonderful things is seeing the volunteers make time to be with us. It’s also heart-warming to witness the friendships that form between us, the athletes and the volunteers. Of course, there are times when we argue, but by the next day, it’s forgotten. We’re like a big family. Playing for Como 1907 in our championship fills me with pride and excitement,” explain Andrea, Christian, and Ivan, players from the LINKS team.

On November 30, during the Como-Monza match, the Larian club celebrated the  International Day of People with Disabilities, marked globally on December 3. LINKS was hosted at the game by Como 1907, along with Arcobaleno ASD, AC Monza’s DCPS team. During half-time, the two teams paraded on the pitch to the applause of the fans, who united in a collective cheer to encourage them.

At the Sinigaglia, the teams also met the Minister for Disabilities, Alessandra Locatelli, who remarked: “Let’s start focusing on potential rather than limitations. Let’s provide opportunities and invest in the talents and abilities of every individual. Thank you to the two teams for a wonderful day filled with energy and enthusiasm.”

Manuel, Marco, Renzo, Andrea and Aldo, volunteers who take care of the athletes every day, say: “The joy in our boys’ eyes, in their smiles. To see them jumping, rejoicing, singing and cheering their Como 1907 champions to the last. To see them parading hand in hand with the Monza boys with the whole stadium on its feet was exciting”.