Tuesday 15th April, 2025 at 9:32am
The Partick Thistle Disabled Supporters’ Association celebrates its second anniversary – today!
The concept of the Partick Thistle DSA came from issues experienced by our Treasurer and Social Media Convenor, Charlene O’Hara, when attending hospitality against Dunfermline Athletic in January 2023. Disillusioned by her experience, Charlene looked to discover whether there was a Disabled Supporters’ Association where she could voice her concerns.
After searching the Club’s website, she emailed the Jags Disabled Supporters’ Club only to find from then JDSC (and subsequent PTDSA Secretary), Mark Rowantree, informing that the JDSC had folded due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Charlene was determined to ensure there would be active representation for disabled spectators and when the idea was pitched by TJF Board Member, Stuart Goldie, the Club backed the initiative wholeheartedly.
The PTDSA aims to improve the matchday experience at Firhill through eradicating barriers which may prevent enjoyment & ensuring that there is active representation where views/concerns can be heard & valued.
A voluntary fan-led initiative, the PTDSA is ran by a small Management Committee which currently consists of Charlene, Steven Andrew & Stuart. Charlene is studying for a degree in Business Management with the Open University, whereas Steven & Stuart both bring a wealth of experience through their roles with the Glasgow Disability Alliance & The Jags Foundation respectively.
The 2024/25 Season has been eventful for the PTDSA:
· Built an active & engaged Membership of 71 with a view of continuing to grow numbers
· Boosted our fundraising efforts through Membership fees, donations & PTDSA Pin Sales
· Collaborated with the Club to identify where improvements can be made to improve the match day experience.
· Local MSP, Kaukab Stewart, visited Firhill in March to meet with the Management Committee & our Members to hear about their experiences & what more could be done to improve equality, diversity & inclusion in Scottish football. We are delighted that Kaukab pledged support for our initiative & is keen to help us achieve our objectives
· Continue to work closely with Club DAO, Dougie McInnes – the DSA’s D’Artagnan to our three musketeers!
Join the PTDSA, whether you have lived experience of disability or want to support our initiative!
You can also follow us on social media –
Twitter: @PTFC_DSA
Facebook: The Partick Thistle Disabled Supporters’ Association
