"No matter your disability or background, you can be at the same place as the seniors. That is huge" – England Women’s Deaf team player, Jennifer Evans
Every three months, St. George’s Park welcomes the England Women’s Deaf team for their training camp, having the opportunity to come together within the elite surroundings and facilities which enable the success of all England teams.
While deaf football uses the same rulebook as the professional game, the cochlear implants worn by players are prohibited from the pitch, meaning players rely on alternative methods of communication as well as the specialist facilities on offer at the national football centre.
The facilities, which are designed to cater for all teams from para to seniors, are vital to giving the Women’s Deaf team the best preparation ahead of their upcoming summer trips to Portugal and USA.
Speaking to the BBC, England Women’s Deaf team midfielder Jennifer Evans described how St. George’s Park’s facilities as the home of all England teams provides the squad with the platform to elite performance when representing the country.
"In the last training camp, we ended up on the pitch where the senior men and women train. There are no words to describe that feeling, it is incredible. We are very fortunate to be seen as elite. In other countries, not many teams get that support.
"No matter your disability or background, you can be at the same place as the seniors. That is huge."
The squad carried out extensive training sessions on the Gordon Banks pitch before heading into technical and tactical briefings in the Football Centre as they prepare for the World Championships in South Korea in May next year.
