Celebrating connection: The County Stars participants who built a life together

This Valentine’s Day, Stockport County Community Trust is celebrating the bonds, friendships and life-changing relationships formed across our programmes.

One story that truly reflects this spirit is James and Amy’s. The pair first met as long‑standing participants in our County Stars programme. Today, they’re married with children, while still attending our Pan‑Disability football sessions every week as dedicated members of the County Stars family.

Designed for people aged 16+ with different impairments, County Stars offers weekly football sessions that provide a disability player pathway and competitive opportunities to represent the club in the Cheshire Ability Counts League.

James has played Pan Disability football for seven years, while Amy, who began playing at 14, was proudly representing Stockport County when the pair first met at the league’s monthly fixtures.

After spending time playing together at Stalybridge Celtic, both returned to Stockport County, where they have remained ever since.

James and Amy are a true inspiration to those around them. James is a supportive leader and role model to new participants, helping them feel welcome and included.

Amy is a fantastic inspiration to female players and a valued, positive presence within the programme.

James said: "County has helped me a lot in making friends, especially with my anxiety. I met my amazing wife here and the programme has changed my life.”

Matti Oates, Health and Inclusion Officer at Stockport County Community Trust, said: “James and Amy’s story shows that the County Stars programme isn’t just about developing football skills, it’s about helping people grow as individuals."

“It’s incredible to see participants leave the sessions with genuine friendships, relationships and lives that continue far beyond the pitch.”