Kirkburton JFC sock-er star raises awareness of Down Syndrome
A teenage goalkeeper from Kirkburton is putting his best foot forward to raise awareness of Down syndrome by selling colourful socks.
Will Bagley, who has Down syndrome, has sold over 160 pairs of funky, vibrant Stand Out Socks thanks to the support of his club, Kirkburton JFC.
The Crusaders under 14s goalie sells them on match days in the tuck shop, giving him an opportunity to build life skills while earning a bit of pocket money.
Will said: “Stand Out Socks is all about wearing super cool and colourful socks to show how awesome people with Down syndrome are. These socks are fun and bright, and they help everyone talk about how important it is to include people with Down’s Syndrome in everything we do.
“We want to help people with learning disabilities get jobs and learn new skills so they can feel happy and be part of the community. My goal for the future is for everyone, regardless of their abilities, to have the opportunity to shine and be celebrated for who they are.”
Stand Out Socks is a company co-founded by Ross Laing, who has Down syndrome, and his brother Christian. They made a statement on BBC’s Dragon’s Den with their pitch, securing £30,000 investment from Peter Jones and Steven Bartlett.
Kirkburton JFC chair, Dave Jowett, and club secretary Jon Emberton have brought the idea to the club as part of their ongoing pledge to raise awareness of Down syndrome. The club has close connections to people with the genetic condition, including Jon’s youngest son Freddie.
Each year they support World Down Syndrome Day on 21st March by running the Lots of Socks odd sock day at the club.
The club also supports young players with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) through their Young Football Leaders Programme, and as a result was awarded the Sheffield and Hallamshire County FA Club of the Year for 2024.
Kirkburton JFC chair, Dave Jowett said: “Will joined the club at the start of this season and is part of our young leaders’ programme so he has weekly one-to-one support. He’s flying now and loving his football. He’s a great kid and we love him being part of our club.
“I am incredibly proud to support the Stand Out Socks initiative. This project is a wonderful way to celebrate the uniqueness and vibrancy of individuals with Down syndrome. The socks are all sold at cost, so it’s not to make money for the club but to raise awareness and promote inclusivity within our community.
“Our football club is committed to creating opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities, helping them gain valuable skills and feel included in all aspects of life. Together, we can make a positive impact and ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to thrive.”
This World Down Syndrome Day, you can show your support by purchasing a pair of Stand Out Socks to get noticed and start a conversation about #WorldDownSyndromeDay
You can purchase your socks here: www.standoutsocks.co.uk