Sport.

Marina Ferrari, after scoring a goal, commented, “« It’s very disturbing. You lose all vision » during her visit to Clermont-Ferrand on Thursday, April 2nd. The Minister of Sports took the opportunity to try cecifoot, a sport played by visually impaired individuals, sometimes even with sighted players, as seen in the first French university championship of this football derivative held on the same day.

Adapted Football for the Visually Impaired: A football field surrounded by a large inflatable blue cushion is set up at the university stadium in Clermont-Ferrand. Under the morning sun, students kick the ball in groups while others aim at the goal. Cecifoot has its unique features, starting with the ball which contains bells inside to help players locate it. As explained by Julie Blom, the coach of the university team from Orleans, participating in the championship.

The game is played five against five on a smaller field, similar to regular football where the objective is to score goals. Typically, visually impaired individuals like Julie Blom participate in cecifoot. She expressed her passion for sports and how cecifoot allows her to engage in activities like a normal person.

During the inter-university competition, teams consist of both sighted and visually impaired players to enhance integration and eliminate isolation from family members. Participants wear dark diving masks to simulate visual impairment and level the playing field.

The inclusive nature of cecifoot is praised by Minister Marina Ferrari, who emphasizes the sport’s ability to promote inclusivity. She acknowledges the importance of shedding light on handicapped sports and supporting their development. Julie Blom also expresses her support for promoting awareness and appreciation for handicapped sports.

The visit to the university stadium not only allowed the Minister to experience cecifoot but also highlighted the sport’s potential to garner attention and support for handicapped sports. This inclusive approach aligns with the values of the Minister of Sports and aims to raise awareness and interest in these sports disciplines.

(*) University Service of Physical and Sports Activities. (**) Sciences and Techniques of Physical and Sports Activities.