A ‘GOAL-DEN’ Gourock volunteer who gives up his free time to coach football to children and adults with disabilities has been recognised for his outstanding efforts.

Ryan Borland was only 15 when a boy with additional support needs inspired him to set up Greenock United Football Club’s disability section four years ago.

The 19-year-old, who also volunteers for Active Schools and has gained refereeing, coaching and first aid qualifications, offers one to one training for the severely disabled youngster and has also been directly involved with Greenock United’s adult learning disability team, which was founded in July last year.

Now he has been named the Scottish Youth Football Association Volunteer of the Year for the West Region 2015/2016.

Modest Ryan, of Staffa Street, told the Tele that he simply wants people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the beautiful game.

He said: “I came up with the idea to set up a disability section back in 2012. There was a boy that came to one of the training sessions who had a disability and we treated him like everyone else. But one time he burst into tears and I thought ‘what is going on?’

“At the time we didn’t know anything about his disability and he left the club, and that was when I had the idea to set up the section.

“Since then the boy has come back, and after one year he’s still playing. I don’t really look at myself as helping people because I enjoy it so much and always have such a laugh.”

Michael McLennan, of The Advisory Group in Greenock, a charity which supports people with learning disabilities, nominated Ryan for the award.

He said: “Ryan does not realise the positive impact he is having on people’s lives, the barriers he is helping to break down and how vital his contribution has been over the last year.  

"He takes difficult situations in his stride and listens when being give advice on how to handle these situations.

“Ryan also gives up his time to volunteer for Active Schools and has been an absolute asset in his work with local children.”

Ryan’s parents, Andreana, 48, dad Iain, 48, and brothers Dylan, 13, and Adam, 11, are very proud of his achievement.

Iain, the chairman of Greenock United FC, said: “I don’t think he realises the impact he has on people.

“When you stand back and watch everyone come off the park with smiles on their faces, it’s really good.”

Andreana added: “Ryan is such a natural with people.”

The former St Columba’s High pupil was presented with his award at the Excelsior Stadium in Airdrie.

He currently works part-time in Sports Direct while studying sports coaching and development at college.

Anyone who would like more information about Greenock United’s disability section can pop down to the under-16 training session on Tuesday nights, or to the over-16 session on Wednesday evenings.

Both run from 6 to 7.30pm at Notre Dame High.