Cumberland FA’s partnership with Specsavers has been renewed for a fifth season.
Since the partnership began in 2018, more than 100 young players across Cumberland have benefited from the scheme.
Players aged 18 and under, who currently wear or need glasses to participate in grassroots football in Cumberland, are eligible for up to a 50 per cent reimbursement on protective eyewear from selected Specsavers stores.
All registered referees and adults who play for or are involved with Cumberland FA affiliated clubs who wish to buy protective sportswear from one of the four suppliers will be eligible for a Premium Club Package.
Last season, 70 youngsters benefited from the scheme, while the total is 116 since the start of the 2019-20 season.
Ben Snowdon, Cumberland FA chief executive officer, said: “The FA recommends protective eyewear but recognises that this may be an issue for children playing in grassroots football.
“As a county FA, over the past four seasons we have tried to reduce this uncertainty, ensuring the safety of both the wearer and other players, but most importantly encouraging and supporting new and existing players in playing the game.
“We are delighted that for the fifth season we have been able to partner with Specsavers – and we thank them for their continued support of the local game.”
Daniel Wood, Specsavers’ retail director, said: “It’s a pleasure once again to work with the Cumberland FA to help deliver a scheme that gets more children and adults into football.”
As well as the support from Cumberland FA, the Carlisle Glass Longhorn Youth Football League and the West Cumbria Youth League have once again confirmed their commitment to provide a further 50 per cent (or £50) off the cost to registered players; meaning players within these leagues can receive the sports-specific protective eyewear at no cost to themselves.
