The Learning Disabilities team draws its players from all over Scotland. The guys get so much enjoyment from representing their country, and the sense of pride you see in all of them being led into arenas in their full regalia is a joy to behold.

Founded in 2003 by Richard Kermath, and taken over by Kelly Wood in 2005, the team has grown in size and stature over the years. We regularly attend the World Championships, which are held annually in Bridlington. In our first year we came back with the singles champion in Derek Donaldson from Dundee, and have come very close on 2 further occasions to repeating that. Alan Reynolds Jnr and Robert Irving have done us proud by reaching the singles semi finals in the last two years respectively. In the team event we have reached the final every year so far, and every year we are getting that little bit closer to our ultimate goal of winning the team event. This year the Learning disabilities competition is being held alongside the seniors event for the first time, so let's hope the added support from the seniors teams could help us to do just that this year.

There are also events held within Scotland as well, the main one being the Scottish Singles Championships. This I held in different venues every year, over a full weekend to find our Scottish champion, and it is attended by players from up and down the country. In the last two years we have also entered a team into the Scottish Super 11s and Super15s which is played against the able bodied teams representing Leagues and areas from all over the country. This gives our guys a fantastic opportunity to play against the cream of Scottish talent that that SPA has to offer, which helps them improve their game immensely,

As well as building their confidence for international events, these events help cement our already superb team spirit. It really is a pleasure to be involved with these guys at international events our friendly matches which we hold regularly throughout the year to raise funds.

If anyone is interested in sponsoring the Learning disabilities team in any way, are interested in a friendly match with our team, or if indeed you are interested in representing your country, please contact the Scottish Special Needs Pool Director - Kelly Wood - who will be only too happy to help.