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Global Football

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Football is a common and universal language which unites people from all walks of life without discrimination of any kind. The global football community can unite our athletes and families with fans and the youth creating new and exciting opportunities for acceptance and inclusion. At the same time the spirit, determination and fair play of our athletes can inspire footballers and their fans.

The goal of Global Football is to have a 'premier league' of football teams as Global Ambassadors.

In 2007 in association with UEFA and FIFA the Special Olympics Global Football (SOGF) was launched with the aims to use the visibility and reach of the world's most popular sport to generate greater public awareness, acceptance and respect for people with intellectual disabilities, and to raise the necessary funds to significantly expand Special Olympics football participation on every continent.

Several well-known football stars have already pledged their commitment to supporting Special Olympics Global Football, including Kaka, David James, Carlos Parreira, Kristine Lilly, Doris Fitschen and Teofilo Cubillas. The initiative is being co-chaired by Angelo Moratti, Special Olympics International Board member and nephew of Inter-Milan owner, Massimo Moratti, along with Argentinian football legend Osvaldo (Ossie) Ardiles.

For more information on SO Global Football contact Trevor O’Rourke at torourke@eircom.net

Major stars of the European football community are partnering with Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia to use their profile to promote the values of human dignity and social inclusion through football.

Global Football Ambassadors:

The world renowned footballer Kaka signed as a Global Ambassadors in 2009.
Italian club, Inter Milan were the first Team Ambassador for Special Olympics Global Football.
Osvaldo “Ossie” Ardiles the legend Argentinian midfielder who became a cult hero in England.
UK premier league club, Tottenham Hotspur are Global Team Ambassadors.
Republic of Ireland are the first national team to become Global Team Ambassadors.
The Tottenham Hotspur Foundation are the official SOEE Grassroots Football provider which involves coaches hosting coaching and training clinics.
David James, the consistent No.1 goalkeeper shirt for England.
Carlos Parreira who has coached teams around the world bringing four national teams to the World Cup.
Woman’s footballer Kristine Lilly who helped her USA team win a Women’s World Cup, and an Olympic medal.

I'm happy to be an Ambassador for Global Football. Every child, regardless of their ability or disability needs to be loved and accepted by their community.