Pupils from Parkview Special School enjoyed a football experience of a lifetime as part of M&S Food’s Eat Well, Play Well campaign in partnership with the Irish FA.
The pupils from the Lisburn school, who were winners of an exclusive competition, were treated to a behind-the-scenes guided tour of the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park.
They also watched the Northern Ireland senior international men’s team train ahead of their UEFA Nations League match against Bulgaria.
And the pupils took part in an exclusive coaching masterclass led by Northern Ireland senior women’s players Abbie Magee and Marissa Callaghan alongside coaches from the Irish FA’s Disability Coaching team.
The special visit was part of M&S Food’s Eat Well, Play Well campaign that is delivered in partnership with the Irish FA.
By partnering with the Irish FA, M&S Food is using the power of football to inspire young people and their families to make healthier food choices and lead active lifestyles.
The campaign links the eating habits of Northern Ireland’s footballing heroes to how they play, promoting positive healthy eating messages for kids in a way that’s engaging, relatable and drives change.
David Kirk, a teacher at Parkview Special School, said: “The children have been absolutely buzzing since we first told them about the visit, and the experience exceeded all their expectations.
“Watching their footballing heroes from the Northern Ireland senior men’s team up close and receiving a coaching session from Abbie and Marissa is something they will never forget. The excitement on their faces throughout the day was incredible, and it's an experience that has made them smile from ear to ear.
“To top it all off the children were given their very own Northern Ireland kits and goody bags, which was a lovely surprise and the perfect end to an unforgettable day. We are so grateful to M&S Food and the Irish FA for making this happen and giving our pupils memories that will last a lifetime.”
Ryan Lemon, Regional Manager for Northern Ireland at Marks and Spencer, said M&S Food was thrilled to host Parkview Special School as part of the Eat Well, Play Well campaign in partnership with the Irish FA.
He explained: “Together we’re encouraging young players, regardless of ability, to make healthier food choices that will support them both on and off the pitch.
“The visit was a special day for the children. We hope this experience inspires them to embrace both healthy living and a lifelong love for football.”
Marissa Callaghan said: “They were all exceptional and really worked hard during the session.
“You could feel and see their passion for the game, and we hope this experience inspires them to keep playing football and make healthy choices both on and off the pitch.”
For more information on the M&S Food Eat Well, Play Well campaign visit www.marksandspencer.com/football.
Image: Northern Ireland senior women’s players Abbie Magee and Marissa Callaghan, plus members of the Irish FA’s Disability Coaching team, with Parkview Special School pupils and staff.
