On Saturday, the Cardiff City FC Disabled Supporters Association enjoyed their very first away match, taking eleven supporters to the Select Car Leasing Stadium to watch City's 2-1 victory over Reading.
After months of planning, the Disabled Supporters Association (DSA) arranged for eleven City supporters to take in a game away from the familiar surroundings of Cardiff City Stadium, organising transport and travel to our match at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Preceding the trip to Berkshire was a Q&A session at Cardiff City Stadium, which took place on Thursday, April 7th. City boss Steve Morison and midfielder Will Vaulks were in attendance, with both answering questions and meeting supporters at the event.
On Saturday, the DSA made the trip to Reading, thanks to contributions made by Cardiff City Supporters Club and Cardiff City Supporters Trust, who kindly assisted with the additional costs of travelling to an away fixture. At the Select Car Leasing Stadium, our travelling Bluebirds were met by the Stadium Manager of Reading FC, who gave an insight into the logistical operation of organising a Championship matchday.
As City supporters began to arrive at the away end, Morison and Vaulks came over to the travelling fans for some pre-match photographs before returning to the dressing room to prepare for the match. The DSA were delighted to see Vaulks, their Player Ambassador, score the winning goal after 85 minutes to round off the perfect away day.
Speaking ahead of kick-off at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, Kieran Jones, Chair of the DSA, said, "We've done our best to accommodate this trip. Cardiff City Supporters Club and Cardiff City Supporters Trust funded the buses and the tickets, because just to bring ten wheelchairs to Reading has cost us £1,200.
"Steve Morison came to his first Q&A at the club, and he was absolutely fantastic. Will Vaulks, our Player Ambassador, was very open and honest, and we had a really enjoyable evening. I'd like to thank the Club and the fans for all their support.
"I'd also like to thank our President, Dr. Len Nokes, SLO Paul Corkrey, DAO Ben Jones, Rachel Creek and Mona Sabbuba for all their help in making this day so successful and unforgettable for so many of our fans.
"We have already had 14 requests for a similar trip next season, with another 12 ambulant disabled supporters interested in attending. Our initiative now for the DSA is to increase our membership, and we're looking to increase the awareness of hidden disabilities."
Cardiff City Disabled Supporters Association are welcoming new members, and it’s free!
Several new members have joined in recent weeks, and all you need to do is fill out the Membership Form below.
Once you have filled out your Membership Form, please return it by emailing it to ccfcdsa@gmail.com.