A FUTSAL team exclusively for players with diabetes based in Worcestershire is set to represent the UK on the European stage this summer.
The Diabetes Football Community (TDFC) men’s futsal team, made up of people living with type 1 diabetes, will represent the United Kingdom at DiaEuro 2025 (July 6 to July 10).
DiaEuro 2025 is the European Futsal Championship for people aged 18 or over with diabetes. It kicks off in Bulgaria later this week on Sunday (July 6) and runs until next Thursday (July 10).
Initially created in 2018 as the UK’s first ever all type 1 futsal team, the TDFC squad are ready to represent the UK, diabetes and futsal on the global stage.
The DFC squad will be competing against other national teams made up entirely of adults living with diabetes. This continues a journey which has been changing perceptions of diabetes in sport.
The Diabetes Football Community (TDFC) was founded in Worcestershire by Chris Bright, an Welsh international futsal player and former semi-professional 11-a-side footballer.
He has a masters degree in Socio-Cultural Studies of Sport and Exercise Science and was awarded an honourary fellowship at University of Worcester in recognition of the positive and transformational contribution he has made in the field of diabetes in sport.
Chris Bright, founder of The Diabetes Football Community said: “We’re so pleased to be taking a team to the DiaEuro representing the UK for the fourth time.
“As a community, we’re proud to be competing internationally at such an impactful competition.
“We have many young kids, parents and adults that are part of TDFC and being able to inspire others and have a positive impact is really important to us.”
The organisation was set up to provide guidance, support and advice for people with diabetes through the vehicle of football.
As a community dedicated to creating safe, inclusive spaces in football for people with diabetes, TDFC aims to challenge misconceptions around diabetes and show the positive opportunities through sport and community.
Visit https://thediabetesfootballcommunity.com/ for more information.
