Level Playing Field was delighted to learn that Portsmouth DSA Founder Sam Piggott was a finalist for the inaugural Ken Malley Fan of the Year Award.
Since the DSA was established in 2013, Sam has worked in partnership with the club to improve facilities for disabled supporters. This has included the introduction of audio descriptive commentary, a partnership with Portsmouth Autism support network to provide ear defenders for autistic supporters and the introduction of a ticket office hearing loop. Sam has also organised regular socials for DSA members and volunteers for Pompey in the Community.
Sam also co-organised the first South Coast Regional Forum which was hosted at Fratton Park in September 2015.
To mark LPF Weeks of Action, Sam organised an inclusion day at Portsmouth to raise awareness. This took place on Thursday 7th April 2016. The event was attended by over 300 people who were treated to first team player appearances, a Pompey DSA refreshments kiosk, taster sessions for powerchair football, walking football, boccia tournament and the premiere of Portsmouth’s new virtual tour. The event was also attended by Flick Drummond MP and Portsmouth players, past and present, including Michael Doyle, Kieron Freeman, Ben Davies, Ben Tollitt, Mathew Clarke, Michael Smith and Alan Knight.
Portsmouth DSA was established during LPF’s Working Together project.
Sam Piggott said, “I didn’t imagine that I would be nominated for Pompey’s fan of the year but it has been a genuine honour to be part of the shortlist”.
Portsmouth DSA chair Steve Webb said “Sam was nominated because we are all so very proud of what she has done, inspired and helped change. If every club had a “Sam” they would be well served indeed”.
13.04.16