Hull footballer plays for England's blind team

Roy Turnham has been selected to play

Hull footballer Roy Turnham and his guide dog Daisy
Author: Andy MarshPublished 15th Aug 2023

A blind footballer from Hull will be once again representing England at the World Championships today as they take on Germany.

Roy Turnham hasn't ever been able to see due to a genetic condition.

But that hasn't stopped him from achieving a lot including being part of the England blind football team for more than ten years.

And he's helped by guide dog Daisy.

He spoke to us ahead of the game.

"It means everything - the feeling never changes, that kind of excitement, the pride of representing your country."

It's about leaving a legacy and trying to inspire others

"Even though I've been around a block a bit now it still fills me with the same feelings."

"I'm getting to the point in my career where I'm at - it's about leaving a legacy and trying to inspire other blind men, women and children to take up the sport of blind football and enjoying it in the way I have."

"For me it's bigger than just the football itself it's about helping others experiencing the challenges of a visual impairment to be able to have a full and enjoyable life and experience."

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