Skills for Sport Student Scoops National AoC Sport Award

Chanan Wilson, a dedicated Supported Education Skills for Sport student has won the 2025 AoC Sport Achievement in Disability Sport Award. The national awards represent the highest successes of young people in Further Education, sport and physical activity.  

The Entry Level student is a shining example of resilience; living with a painful foot condition caused by flat feet. Chanan experiences significant discomfort and fatigue on a daily basis and is currently awaiting surgery. He also faces challenges with processing information, often requiring additional time to respond and engage. Yet, despite these obstacles, Chanan has shown commitment to sport and personal growth. 

For the past two years, Chanan has been an active participant in pan-disability football. What began as a step outside his comfort zone has evolved into a journey of confidence-building and self-belief. Initially doubting his abilities due to his disability, Chanan has steadily overcome those fears through consistent effort and participation. His self-worth, once low, has grown visibly alongside his football skills, and he is now playing with enthusiasm, purpose, and growing confidence. 

Rob Elkin, Senior Sport Development Officer at AoC Sport, said: “ This year, we saw a significant increase in both the volume and standard of nominations, making the achievement even more remarkable.   

“Chanan Wilson has won the Achievement in Disability Sport award for his remarkable resilience, dedication, and growth in pan-disability football, overcoming significant physical and cognitive challenges to inspire his peers and become an ambassador for inclusive sport. 

“Chanan's dedication, hard work, and passion for disability sport truly set him apart, and as an organisation we are really proud to present this award and as a college you should feel incredibly proud of this well-deserved recognition.” 

Alice Ferrier, Supported Education Lecturer and Football Team Manager, said: “This academic year, Chanan has improved both on and off the pitch. His performance has developed through his own dedication - attending every session, pushing himself through discomfort, and refusing to let pain define his limits. His efforts have not gone unnoticed.” 

Kieran Hardy, Sport and Wellbeing Facilitator at Lincoln College, said: “Throughout the season, Chanan has grown tremendously in confidence and ability on the football pitch. In total, Chanan and his team finished the academic year with three trophies, a first-place medal, and a second-place medal - a truly remarkable achievement.” 

Chanan is a regular and reliable presence in the team. His journey from hesitation to commitment has inspired his peers, particularly those with additional needs, showing them that sport is for everyone, no matter the barrier. 

Chanan has become an ambassador for inclusive sports, and an inspiration to the college community. In September 2025, he will be progressing to mainstream college to study Level 1 Sport, a transition that speaks volumes about his progress and determination.