Greater Manchester
Powerchair Fooball Club
HOW IT started
Greater Manchester Powerchair Football Club began its journey in 2008, originally as Sale United Powerchair Football Club. The program was created after a parent approached Sale United FC with a challenge: their youngest child, who had spinal muscular atrophy and used a wheelchair, wanted to play football just like his twin and older siblings.
Determined to make football accessible, Sale United formed its first Powerchair football squad within six months. The team began competing in the North West Powerchair League, and interest quickly grew as more wheelchair users wanted to take part.
Growth and National competition
As the squad developed, the club progressed to competing at national level, regularly travelling to Nottingham for fixtures. These trips required significant commitment from players, families, and volunteers, but the passion for the sport kept the programme moving forward.
With participation increasing, Sale United eventually had more players than could be entered into national competitions. Under National Wheelchair Football Association rules, only one squad per club can compete nationally.
To ensure more players had the chance to compete, Sale United formed a partnership with the Manchester United Foundation, creating a squad that competed as Manchester United Powerchair Football Club.
In its first season, the team:
• Maintained its place in the National League
• Won the North West Powerchair League
This success was supported by dedicated players, parents, and volunteers who helped the programme grow.
infrastructure and volunteer support
Behind the scenes, the club has always prioritised:
• Strong organisation
• Clear communication
• Consistent support for players
• Well-structured training sessions
The club has also been shaped by the commitment of volunteers who help with training, competitions, logistics, and creating a welcoming environment for new families.
A new chapter Greater Manchester PFC
As the program expanded, the decision was made to bring all teams together under a new identity: Greater Manchester Powerchair Football Club
Today, the club represents three teams:
• Manchester United PFC•
Altrincham PFC (formerly Sale United PFC)•
Altrincham Bees (formerly Sale Bees, the development squad)
This rebrand reflects the club’s wider reach across the region while continuing the legacy that began at Sale United.
OUR JOURNEY - TIMELINE
2008
Sale United launches its first Powerchair football squad.
2008–2009
The team begins competing in the North West Powerchair League.
Early Growth
More players join the Club
National Competition
The club begins competing at national level
Manchester United PFC Formed
Partnership allows more players to compete nationally.
Development Squad Created
Sale Bees is formed for new and developing players.
Present Day
The club becomes Greater Manchester PFC, representing three teams across the region.
our values
R.E.D.S
The club is built on four core values that guide everything we do
R – Respect
We promote respect between players, coaches, volunteers, families, and opponents, creating a positive and supportive environment for everyone
E – Enjoyment
We ensure every player experiences fun, friendship, and a welcoming atmosphere both in training and competition.
D – Development
We support every player’s growth, helping them build skills, confidence, and a love for the sport as they progress
S – Success
We celebrate progress, achievement, and teamwork at every level, recognising success both on and off the pitch.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Greater Manchester PFC continues to grow, offering opportunities for wheelchair users across the region to experience Powerchair football. With committed coaches, volunteers, players, and families, the club aims to keep expanding the sport and supporting players at every stage of their journey.What began with one child wanting the chance to play football has become a thriving, multi-team club helping many players enjoy the game they love