Oldham Athletic are proud to be supporting Level Playing Field’s ‘Weeks of Action’ campaign with a themed matchday against Bolton Wanderers this evening.
Level Playing Field is a sports charity that acts as a campaigning and advisory organisation for disabled sports fans, currently supporting disabled fans through a free membership programme and providing virtual offers, including weekly Zoom calls and a podcast.
They also support clubs with training for staff, access audits and expert advice and guidance on making football a welcoming and inclusive environment.
The club is getting involved in the charity’s 17th annual ‘Weeks of Action’ campaign by helping supporters to learn about the work of Level Playing Field by understanding what they do, how they aim to improve accessibility and inclusion, and how they can assist disabled fans.
Marking this year's Weeks of Action with a designated Level Playing Field matchday against Bolton Wanderers. Players will warm up in dedicated Level Playing Field t-shirts ahead of the game, with dugout staff wearing Level Playing Field badges on their clothing.
Whilst Latics supporter Aaron Diskin will become a virtual mascot online, being part of the team that enters the Boundary Park pitch ahead of kick-off. Aaron is also a co-creator of the Cerebral Palsy and ME podcast that raises awareness further and positive discussion.
On being part of the plans for the dedicated matchday, Aaron said; "It’s great to be the matchday mascot for Level Playing Field. I'm a huge believer in disabled people having positive and inclusive experiences in sport.
"As a person of disability I’ve always been extremely proud of the way the club has been supportive and inclusive, a huge positive was a few years back with the sensory packs for people with autism.
"Oldham matchdays are a huge part of my life and I'm extremely grateful to the club for allowing me to be there virtually for the big game to support the lads in a different way, it'll definitely add some more excitement before kick-off!"
To become a Level Playing Field member, visit www.levelplayingfield.org.uk