A HEREFORD college will again be welcoming international footballers for a European tournament.

The Royal National College for the Blind (RNC) in Hereford will be hosting the third round of this season’s European Blind Football League (EBFL) on Saturday, March 30, at its state-of-the-art facility thePoint4 in Hereford.

RNC Hereford represents the nation as the sole contender in this League, and after finishing runners-up in the competition’s inaugural season, their sights are firmly set on securing the coveted title this year.

This season the participating teams are Bondy Cécifoot Club (France), Borussia Dortmund (Germany), Cécifoot Charleroi (Belgium), ASDD Roma (Italy), Pirsos Thessaloniki (Greece), and RNC Hereford (England).

Adam Bendall, RNC Hereford’s head coach, brings a wealth of experience to the hosting side.

He said: 'This tournament is a fantastic opportunity for RNC’s talented young team to gain playing experience and compete on an international stage.

“Blind football is a fast-paced and exciting sport, and this tournament is a showcase for some of the best talent in Europe.

“We're proud to be able to host this event, open our doors to the public and raise awareness of the sport.”

In addition to the international fixtures, the college are holding a family festival of football and everyone is invited to get involved in some fun activities and enjoy food provided by some great local entrepreneurs.

The Herefordshire Football Association (HFA) is also supporting the event. The HFA’s football development officer, Scott Russell, added: “I’m delighted that Herefordshire FA will be supporting the European Blind Football League at RNC and thePoint4.

“To have an international event being held in Herefordshire is a brilliant opportunity to showcase to everyone just what great facilities they have, and that Herefordshire is the perfect venue to host a successful footballing event. 

“What I am most excited about is that anyone on the day will be given the opportunity to try different forms of blind sports for themselves, such as Goalball and Blind Football, as we collectively look to breakdown social barriers towards disability football.

“This promises to be a fun family festival day as well as getting to watch highly competitive matches in the European Blind Football League.’ 

As with last year, the games will be streamed live to fans across Europe, courtesy of CJP Broadcast Service Solutions Ltd, based in Whitchurch, near Ross-on- Wye.

While the Festival of Football is free to all, tickets will need to be purchased to watch the matches, as seating is limited.

Spectator tickets can be purchased online at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/european-blind-football-league-tournament-and-festival-of-football-tickets-803371875907