Ross Mattinson, winner of a major county award, has met members of the England team on a special visit to their training camp.
A local football referee, Carlisle United autism representative, youth activity worker and autism champion, Ross was the winner of Cumberland FA’s John Twentyman Spirit of Football award.
As part of that award he recently enjoyed an inspiring visit to St George’s Park, where he attended an open training session with the England team.
Ross was chosen for this annual honour by members of the Cumberland FA, in recognition of his unwavering dedication to making football more inclusive for neurodiverse individuals.
His tireless efforts have had a transformative impact on many lives across the county, with widespread agreement that Ross was a truly deserving recipient of the award.
Ross said: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to receive the John Twentyman Special Recognition Award.
“My autistic life has involved me facing exclusion and negative attitude many times, from uneducated individuals who did not understand how to include me within their environments.
“Therefore, this has made me passionate and determined to include every neurodiverse individual within their appropriate areas, allowing them to enjoy being part of something whilst thriving daily.
“Also, what has happened throughout my life has shown me how much fun it is to be involved with something you like with people in the same boat as yourself, especially sport.
“Watching an open England training session was amazing! I really enjoyed watching the players gain team responsibilities as they took part in fitness and team building drills.
“Additionally, it was surreal to chat with the players. They happily signed autographs and had photos with me, which included me having a photo with James Trafford and Dean Henderson, two Cumbrian born goalkeepers who have both had successful careers.
“Overall, it was wonderful to see how high-level professional footballers live their lives as players and decent human beings.
“I would like to thank every individual who has helped me to thrive by including me in their environment.
“I would also like to thank everyone who was involved in choosing me as the winner and finding my prize. Furthermore, I would like to say thank you to my dad, Craig, and Ben Snowdon for accompanying me to this once in a lifetime event.”
