Milton Keynes Dons have celebrated a major off-field triumph as their inclusion football squads returned from the Special Olympics GB National Games with silver and bronze medals. The achievement provides a significant boost for the club's community arm during a challenging start to the League One season, where the Dons sit 19th with four points from five games.
The MK Dons Community Trust, the club's official charity, entered two teams named the MK Falcons and MK Hawks into the four-day national event at Birmingham's Alexander Stadium. Over 1,200 athletes competed across 15 sports, with the Falcons earning a silver medal in Tier One after reaching the final, which was won by Yorkshire and Humberside. The Hawks secured a bronze in Tier Two with a 2-0 victory over Leicester in the third-place play-off.
How did the players perform on the national stage?
For many participants, this marked their first time representing the Dons badge at a national level. Defender Abdul Qasim Ahmad, 21, scored on his National Games debut and spoke of his pride. "The experience was incredible, I’m proud to represent MK Dons as a defender, and winning a bronze medal at the Special Olympics was an unforgettable moment for me," he said. The success also kicks off the inclusion squad's 26th season of training and competitive matches on a high note.
Inclusion Officer Georgina Fielden, who leads the programme, was effusive in her praise. "In all my years working with our inclusion football squads, I can confidently say this is the best thing we have done," Fielden stated. The Trust runs these sessions to support the physical and mental wellbeing of players, with coaching delivered by FA and UEFA qualified staff.
Where can players join the MK Dons inclusion sessions?
The Community Trust operates youth and adult sessions every Sunday afternoon at the club's Woughton on the Green training headquarters. Youth sessions for ages five to 16 begin at 1:30pm, followed by two dedicated 90-minute adult sessions at 3:00pm and 4:30pm. These are open to players of all abilities, experience levels, and backgrounds. Anyone interested in joining can contact the Trust via information@mkdonscommunitytrust.com.
What is the context of the first team's season?
This community success story arrives as the first team seeks to improve its league position. Mike Williamson's side has scored seven goals but conceded nine, leaving them with a negative goal difference and eight points behind early leaders Sheffield Wednesday. The immediate focus shifts to the next League One fixture, a home match against Peterborough United on September 12th. You can view the full schedule on our fixtures page and track the team's progress in the standings.
The club will hope the spirit and success shown by the Falcons and Hawks can inspire a positive result at Stadium MK this weekend.
