Tigres Powerchair, the first inclusive football team in Mexico

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Club Tigres, the Football Club from the Autonomous University of Nuevo León, is promoting inclusivity and equity in sport with the help of its Foundation by launching Tigres Powerchair, the first inclusive football team in Mexico for people with motor disabilities.

“Powerchair football” is a high-profile international sport. It is played in over 30 countries and has a lasting impact on the lives of those who practise it and their families.

The aim of this game is to score more goals than the opponent’s team and it is played on a basketball court. Players use their Strike Force power wheelchairs, with adapted foot guards, to “kick” the ball.

International powerchair football matches have taken place and seen astounding results. This sport has become a great option for those who want to have fun and do some exercise, regardless of their age or gender.

“I’ve never skipped a practice session. I’ve made great friends and I really enjoy this sport. I particularly like being able to participate in a sport that I never I’d be able to play with my condition. It has changed my life and pushed me to carry on and live my life to the fullest.” — Erick Manuel Ramirez, 18 years old, person with muscular dystrophy.

Tigres Powerchair has grown into a big family where everyone feels like they belong and feels valued, since it allows its players to build a better relationship with themselves and with those around them. Self-esteem, self-trust, better life expectations, independence, and the desire for self-improvement are only some of the benefits that this inclusive sport brings.

This sport has had a direct impact on 45 young people, children and their families, and an indirect impact on thousands of young Mexicans, who have felt inspired by their example. This has opened the door to a new generation of powerchair football teams in other regions throughout country, such as Saltillo, Chihuahua, Pachuca and Mexico City. For further information, please send an email to porunmejorfuturo@tigres.com.mx.

Sinergia Deportiva, the company behind Club Tigres, is a member of Movimiento Congruencia, a business organisation that promotes, raises awareness about and facilitates labour inclusion for people with disabilities. For more information, please visit the website: congruencia.org.mx.