Leeds student selected for Great Britain U23 deaf football team
A Year 12 student at Leeds-based Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College has been selected to represent Great Britain at the Under 23s World Deaf Football Championship, which will take place in Serbia later this year.
Zachary, aged 16, is one of the youngest players chosen for the national squad and will compete against teams from across the world at the prestigious international tournament.
Despite his young age, Zachary has already built an impressive football career. He made his debut for the Wales Deaf Men’s team at just 15 years old and currently plays semi-professional football on Saturdays alongside Under 18 football on Sundays. In 2025, he was named among the top three young players at the Deaf Champions League Men’s U-21 Futsal competition in the Netherlands.
Representing Great Britain is a major achievement, but participation in the championship is self-funded. Each player is required to raise £2,500 to cover travel, accommodation, training, and registration costs. With Zachary’s brother Cameron also selected for the squad, the family is seeking to raise £5,000 to enable both players to attend.
Speaking about the opportunity, Zachary said: “I wish the UK government would support Deaf athletes, but they don’t at the moment. That’s why I’m turning to people I know and the public. Every donation, big or small, helps me take one step closer to the competition. I’ll keep everyone updated on my training and progress throughout the championship.”
Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College has expressed its pride in Zachary’s achievement and is supporting both brothers as they prepare to represent Great Britain on the world stage.
Anyone wishing to support Zachary’s journey can donate via his JustGiving page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-zach-play-for-gb-u23-football-world-championship/cl/s?utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp20_control&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&lang=en_GB