Antrim Eagles 'sign up' to support deaf teammates

THE Antrim Eagles soccer team has taken a major step toward greater inclusivity by introducing British Sign Language (BSL) training for their team, with the support of Choice Housing.

The training delivered by Anthony Sinclair, from Sign Source comes after a landmark year in which the Eagles welcomed two profoundly deaf players to the squad.

By learning BSL, the team aims to ensure that all players can communicate effectively, feel fully supported, and enjoy the same opportunities to thrive both on and off the pitch.

The training session took place on 9th August, at the Old Courthouse in Antrim Town from 9am to 12 noon.

Local councillors were invited to attend, not only to enhance their own communication skills but also to show their support for football and athletics in the heart of the town centre.

Members of Antrim Community Fridge also attended.

“This is about more than football,” said Stuart Harkin, Chair Person at Antrim Eagles.

“It is about making sure that every player is included, valued, and given the tools to succeed. The support from Choice Housing has been vital in helping us make this happen.”

“By embracing BSL, the Antrim Eagles hope to set an example for other clubs and community groups across Northern Ireland, proving that sport can be a powerful force for inclusion and understanding.”

A spokesperson for the team said: “Our team embraced the session, learning British Sign Language through a variety of fun and interactive techniques. But the biggest lesson? We all need to do more.

“It’s so easy to get wrapped up in our own world and forget about the barriers others face. Sessions like this help remove those barriers.

“While our club – alongside some members of the community – learned some BSL yesterday, we’d love to see this happen across football and in every community.

“We are Antrim Eagles. We’re committed to being better, to lifting barriers, and to supporting both our players and our community.”