In March 2019, Blackburn Rovers launched a DSActive Football session, providing a much needed sporting opportunity to the local area. After building on solid foundations, the club is going from strength to strength, and have recently taken part in a  friendly at Manchester City.

We caught up with the parents of one of the players, Harvey, and found what the session means to them and how he’s getting on:

Harvey has been involved in sport since he was 3 years old.

He started at a special gymnastics session which we had to travel to, but he thoroughly enjoyed it. Sadly after three years the coach felt unable to carry on and it stopped. Harvey was so upset and I tried and tried to find something suitable for him to get involved with. However there was little or nothing in our local area.

When we got the letter from the DSA telling us about the football sessions with Blackburn Rovers Community Trust we were thrilled!

It has meant Harvey has a football team to call his own. It means so much to him, as his brother plays football too.

It keeps Harvey fit and active and has widened his social network and he has made lovely friends.

It has been great support for us as parents too. Harvey loves the sessions and asks “Is it Monday?” each night, as he so looks forward to it.

Matt the coach is wonderful with the children and gets the balance just right between fun and firm boundaries.

Harvey supports Liverpool and Barcelona and his favourite player is Lionel Messi.

A big thank you to @HelloHarvey for the brilliant blog and for the pictures. Looking forward to seeing all the players from the Blackburn session at some events soon!

If you would like to join Blackburn Rovers, or see if there are any sessions in your area please visit our Blackburn Session Details or our Map of Activities Near You .