South Ribble Beaver Sam Takes First Steps Toward England Para Football Dream
9th Penwortham Scout shows determination and skill on the national stage.
The other week, 7-year-old Sam from 9th Penwortham Beaver Scout in South Ribble took his first big step towards football stardom. Invited to the prestigious England Para Talent Pathway at St. George’s Park—home of England Football—Sam joined over 100 talented young players living with impairments including deafness, visual, and physical disabilities.
Sam, who turned 7 in April and wears cochlear implants, has never let a challenge stand in the way of his passion. Whether he’s saving goals as a fearless goalkeeper, making speedy runs down the wing, or smashing in goals, his energy and focus are unmistakable. On the day, he took part in a series of football drills and matches, impressing coaches with his drive—and even scoring!
“Scoring was brilliant,” Sam said. “But the best bit was playing with loads of other players who love football like me. I want to keep training, get even better, and maybe one day play for England. I love playing in goal or on the wing… and I always do the Robot when I score—just like Peter Crouch!”
Sam plays locally for Lostock Hall Juniors Whites U7s and the Lostock Hall Deaf Football Team, where his coaches and teammates know he’s football-mad—whether he’s playing, watching Liverpool or Preston North End, or perfecting his skills on FIFA.
This Talent Day was just the beginning. Sam has now been invited to continue his journey at The Cliff, Manchester United’s iconic training ground, as part of the pathway that supports young players in developing and potentially representing England at a para level.
The England Para Talent Pathway is about more than football—it’s about identifying and developing future stars with cerebral palsy, visual or hearing impairments, and other physical or neurological conditions. With tailored sessions and expert coaching, it gives young people like Sam the chance to dream big and go further.
Mandi Richardson, Sam’s Beaver Leader at 9th Penwortham, said, “Sam’s got a spark. Whether it’s football or Beavers, he gives it everything—always with a smile and always helping others. He’s resilient, kind and determined. That’s what Scouting’s about. He’s a role model for young people across South Ribble.”
Jon Nutten, Support Team Leader for South Ribble Scouts, added: “It was brilliant to meet Sam, hear his story and even have a kickabout with him! His passion for football, eagerness to learn and drive to keep improving are incredible. Hearing how Scouts has helped build his confidence and skills shows the power of what we do. Sam’s a real inspiration—not just to other young people but also adults. Keep going, Sam—we’re all cheering you on!”
Scouting has helped build Sam’s confidence and resilience—two of the many #SkillsForLife he’s gained on his journey. From teamwork and leadership to bravery in the face of challenges, Scouts helps young people like Sam to stand tall and follow their dreams.
Chief Scout Dwayne Fields said: “Sam’s story is inspiring. His resilience, determination, and love for football show what young people can achieve when they’re supported and encouraged. Scouting helps build that confidence—giving every young person the skills and belief to shine, no matter their background or circumstances. We’re all behind Sam as he follows his passion.”
⚽ Want to know more?
- Learn about the England Para Talent Pathway and how it helps young people with disabilities achieve their football dreams
- Check out Lostock Hall Juniors FC
- Follow the Lostock Hall Deaf Team on Facebook
- Discover how Scouts builds the skills young people need to succeed in life with real examples from South Ribble: The Skills Young People Need to Succeed – and How Scouts Help Build Them
- Explore more at scouts.org.uk
The Skills Young People Need to Succeed—And How Scouts Help Build Them