The Dragons are the representative football team of the Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association.

The team was formed as there are a number of hurdles for those with Down Syndrome to taking part in sports. The aim was to remove those barriers and to help the players exceed their physical fitness expectations. Football provides an excellent medium to do this and also overcomes any language barriers.

Coaching focuses on improving cardiovascular capacity, mobility, flexibility and coordination, the benefits of which are well documented in young people with Down Syndrome. We also include autistic players who face different challenges.

The football programme in its current form kicked off in 2007 and is led by coaches Jeff Rotmeyer, Daniel Choi and Tim Nicholls. Numerous other volunteers also give their time to make our training sessions a success. The programme has gone from strength to strength with more participants and progress made for both players and coaches.

As well as playing other charitable teams in Hong Kong, we also look to the international community to provide a rewarding experience for all of those involved.

Most importantly, we aim to have fun and play some good football.