Hibernian Community Foundation establishes a unique partnership with Lothian Special Olympics to form 'Lothian Hibernian'.

The new partnership brings together shared resources, expertise and a common passion for football. The aim is to promote and create positive opportunities for players within the sport of learning disability football across the Lothians.

On the 15 th July Hibernian manager John Hughes met up with the players and coaches who are currently preparing to represent the region in the up and coming Special Olympics GB National Summer Games, which are taking place in Leicester from 25 th - 31 st July. As well as words of advice to the Lothian Hibernian players, the manager also presented new kits to the team at the special presentation staged at Easter Road Stadium.

In addition to strips, the players are also being supported by Hibernian Academy players who will undertake regular coaching sessions with the players from the team's Meadowbank Stadium base.

Following the teams participation in the Special Olympics GB, Lothian Hibernian will also take part in the Scottish Disability Sport National 7-a-side Football Championships which are being held at Meadowmill Sports Centre, East Lothian , Tuesday 15th September 2009.

Scott Lindsay, Chief Executive of Hibernian Football Club, said: "We are delighted with this new partnership, the collaboration brings many more opportunities for people in our community and furthers the objectives of Hibernian Community Foundation. Football has the power to bring individuals together and in this instance we are looking forward to supporting the players to achieve greater things, on and off the field.

Hibernian Manager, John Hughes, commented: "I have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm for the game from Lothian Hibernian coaches and players alike. The Hibernian Community Foundation is undertaking some fantastic work in encouraging involvement in football in the local and surrounding communities and I look forward to seeing the Lothian Hibernian squad down at the Club's Training Centre for a coaching session. I wish the team well for the Summer Games where I know the players will proudly showcase their abilities and talents."

Elaine McKenna, Head Coach of Lothian Hibernian, said: "This is a great opportunity to promote the skills and attributes of players with learning disabilities within Lothian, and we are really excited about working in partnership with Hibernian Community Foundation to unite sport in the community."

Stuart Sharp, the SFA's National Development Manager - Disability welcomed the partnership and applauded Hibernian Community Foundation for their vision.

"This unique partnership will enhance the football opportunities for people in the Lothians and help to build on the success of Lothian Special Olympics' activities to date. It will also help to create a player pathway from grassroots football to international level."

Weekly training sessions will take place at Meadowbank Stadium on Wednesday evenings from 4.30pm - 6pm from September and are open to athletes with a wide variety of learning disabilities over 14 years. If you would like further information on Lothian Hibernian email: LSOFootball@aol.com or from September call along to Meadowbank Stadium and speak to the coaches on Wednesday evenings from 4.30pm - 6pm

The Hibernian Community Foundation Limited is a company limited by guarantee and is a registered
Scottish Charity No: SC039699.