Hundreds attend Turner Syndrome Football Festival in Glasgow

Glasgow Times

4 days ago

More than 200 girls from across the West of Scotland arrived at Petershill Park in Springburn on Sunday, July 27, for the annual Turner Syndrome Awareness Football Festival.
For the first time, teams had the chance to play across the entire complex in North Glasgow, which allowed even more girls to take part.
(Image: TSSS)
The event was organised by the Turner Syndrome Support Society (TSSS) in an effort to raise awareness of the rare genetic condition, which is said to affect one in every 2000 girls.
Arlene Smyth, executive officer of the TSSS, highlighted the importance of early diagnosis.
She said: "Events like these are absolutely essential in raising awareness of Turner Syndrome.
"If a girl is not achieving expected growth or development, it's important not to ignore the signs -early diagnosis makes a real difference.
'We're grateful to everyone who helped make today possible."
(Image: TSSS)
READ NEXT: Glasgow youth project in desperate bid for new building
According to NHS Scotland, Turner Syndrome (TS) is a rare genetic condition that only affects females and is usually diagnosed at birth.
There is currently no cure, but treatment and support are available to help manage symptoms.
It is understood that everyone with the condition is affected differently; however, it can impact growth, height, and general development.
This year's football festival saw an increase of more than 50 per cent in attendance and was described as both a 'significant milestone' for girls' football and raising awareness of TS.
Teams from Phoenix Girls travelled from Hamilton, Renfrew, West Park United, Kilmarnock and Glasgow City to take part.
Gus MacLean, chair of Phoenix Girls FC, said: "This event wouldn't have been possible without the commitment of our partners, the Partick Thistle Charitable Trust, and the tireless work of coaches, parents, and volunteers.
'Together, we're making a real difference."
Iain Stuart, Scottish Women's Premier League competitions officer, presented the medals on the day.
(Image: TSSS)
He praised the event as a 'testament' to the power of partnership and community.
READ NEXT: Man hits out at 'unbelievable' state of Glasgow cemetery
Speaking at the festival, Mr Stuart commented: "Festivals like this simply didn't exist a decade ago.
"It's fantastic to see hundreds of girls out playing football together, raising awareness, and showing just how far the women's game has come.
'Today is a testament to the power of partnership and community."
The event was delivered through a partnership between the TSSS, a Clydebank-based charity, and Phoenix Girls FC, who built on the previous year's success with the support of the [[Partick Thistle]] Charitable Trust.
(Image: TSSS) (Image: TSSS)
It was dedicated to the memory of Emma Woods, who lived with TS and sadly died aged 20.
The Emma Woods Memorial Fund, created by her friends and family, continues to raise vital funds to support awareness campaigns and initiatives such as the festival.
Fraser Cromar, CEO of the Partick Thistle Charitable Trust, said: "Petershill Park is synonymous with women's football in Scotland, being home to both Glasgow City and Partick Thistle Women.
'When we heard about the vision behind the Turner Syndrome Awareness Football Festival, we were fully committed to supporting it.
'Bringing communities together through football to raise awareness for such an important cause is exactly the kind of initiative we want to champion."
For further information on TS visit the TSSS's website HERE.