Down Syndrome Awareness Day, observed annually on March 21, is a global event dedicated to celebrating individuals with Down Syndrome and promoting inclusion, understanding, and equal opportunities. One of the day’s key initiatives is the Odd Socks campaign, a fun and meaningful way to promote awareness, encourage conversations, and celebrate diversity. To mark the occasion, Celtic FC Foundation proudly celebrated the incredible participants of its Ability Counts project. The initiative provides physical activities for children and young people with Down Syndrome and other additional support needs, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants can build confidence, develop skills, and form valuable friendships. The project has been running successfully in Glasgow since 2011, offering tailored sessions that support individuals both on and off the pitch. Beyond Scotland, the Foundation’s Ability Counts Ireland project supports over 100 young people with additional support needs across Mayo, Sligo, Derry, and Donegal. Throughout this week, Foundation project participants, coaches, and staff joined the Odd Socks campaign, showing their support with a vibrant display of mismatched socks. This simple yet powerful gesture reinforces the importance of acceptance, equality, and breaking down barriers. Through Ability Counts, Celtic FC Foundation remains committed to ensuring physical activity is accessible to everyone, regardless of ability, providing a safe, structured, and enjoyable space where participants can thrive. Tony Hamilton, CEO of Celtic FC Foundation, said: “Ability Counts is at the heart of our work, and supporting those with Down Syndrome is where it all began. Thanks to the incredible support from around the world, we’ve been able to continually expand this initiative, reaching more children and young people each year. Inclusion remains a fundamental value for us, and we are dedicated to ensuring this project continues to thrive and make a lasting impact.” For more information about our Ability Counts project please contact us at [email protected] or 0141 551 4321.
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