A pioneering sports initiative has been launched in Türkiye, with the Walker Sports Club establishing the country’s first-ever cerebral palsy football team.
Cerebral Palsy (CP) football is a seven-a-side adaptation of the game designed for the Paralympic level that is played by ambulant athletes who have cerebral palsy or similar neurological conditions.
Several standard football rules are also adjusted to better suit the players’ physical abilities, ensuring a fair and competitive match environment.
The team brings together 30 children aged between seven and twelve, who recently gathered for training sessions at Istanbul’s Hamza Yerlikaya Sports Complex.
Cerebral palsy football is now played in 86 countries worldwide.
It is recognised for supporting the physical, cognitive and emotional development of young athletes who suffer from the neurological condition that affects their movements, balance and posture.
The team is representing Türkiye at Walker Sports Stockholm.
The club was founded by families who first connected through social media and therapy centres. On the pitch, the children use walkers as part of their training and play.
Walker Sports Club President Muhammet Emin Ergun has said intensive sessions provide vital opportunities for social interaction, especially for children undergoing demanding medical treatment.
Ergun stated that these children underwent difficult surgeries and physical therapy processes for their treatment, adding, "Because of these sessions and physical therapy, these children have little time to play in the early years of their lives. Later, my wife and a few mothers came together to help these children socialise. There, we realised that these children are good for each other."
Cerebral palsy football integrates children into society
The project has also drawn international attention, with the English Football Federation offering UEFA-supported training assistance to the Turkish initiative.
Local authorities have backed the programme, with the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Youth and Sports Directorate providing access to training facilities.
Coordinator Kerem Arda has said sport plays a key role in helping people with disabilities integrate socially.
Coach Kemal Yildirim adds that even basic football training can help stimulate brain development through structured and enjoyable group activity.
Medical experts say adapted sports programmes can significantly improve the gross and fine motor skills often affected by cerebral palsy.
Parents involved in the project say the team has created a strong sense of community.
Goknur Onur and Pelin Akin, children’s mothers, describe it as a space where families no longer feel alone.
“Football is the most loved and popular sport among children. We want to help our children integrate better into society through football, contribute to their adaptation, and have a happier and more peaceful life," Onur said.
Another parent, Sevim Ceylan, says the children experience genuine joy when playing together, highlighting the importance of inclusive spaces for play.
Looking ahead, the Walker Sports Club aims to take the team into national and international competitions in the near future.
