Clermont Foot 63 reaches a new milestone in its social commitment by strengthening its partnership with the Jacques CHIRAC Foundation during World Autism Awareness Day. Together, they bring to life a deeply human and inspiring project, placing inclusion at the heart of the game. Through this initiative, 23 children supported by the Autism Inclusion Hub will experience a unique, immersive, and empowering experience within the Auvergne club.
On Wednesday, April 8, the autistic children of the Jacques Chirac Foundation had the opportunity to experience an exceptional day at the Gabriel-Montpied stadium. Welcomed at the Clermont facility, they were able to explore the behind-the-scenes of the club: touring the facilities, watching the professional players train, and, most importantly, having privileged encounters with them. Beyond just discovery, this moment was marked by sincere and enriching exchanges. A timeless break for these young people, who were able to fully immerse themselves in the world of professional football in a caring and accessible environment.
A poignant moment on the pitch
The second highlight of this initiative will take place on Friday, April 10, on the occasion of the 30th round of the Ligue 2 BKT between Clermont Foot 63 and AS Nancy Lorraine. The 23 children will then experience a magical moment by becoming the escort kids of the match: they will enter the pitch alongside the players, under the watchful eyes of the public. A symbolic and powerful moment, where inclusion and emotion will merge, perfectly illustrating the club’s desire to make football a social bond.
Meaningful jerseys
To make this encounter even more memorable, the players of Clermont Foot 63 made a strong gesture: they will not wear their name on the back of their jerseys, but the first name of the child they will walk onto the pitch with. A powerful symbol that places these children at the heart of the event. To go even further, the jerseys will be adorned with drawings made by the children themselves, making each jersey unique and emotionally charged.
After the match, these jerseys will be auctioned on the Match Worn Shirt website for the benefit of the Jacques Chirac Foundation, extending the impact of this beautiful initiative.
An inspiring initiative, true to the club’s values, reminding us that the greatest victories are also human.
[Context: The initiative by Clermont Foot 63 and the Jacques Chirac Foundation aims to raise awareness about autism and promote inclusion in football.] [Fact Check: World Autism Awareness Day is observed on April 2 each year, not on April 8 or April 10 as mentioned in the article.]
