On Air Manx Radio Breakfast Ben Hartley | 6:00am - 9:00am

Football: Special Olympian making move into mainstream game

Dylan Butler has begun training with Pulrose United

A member of the Special Olympics Isle of Man team is making the step into mainstream football on Island.

Dylan Butler - who's been involved with the olympic team for the last four years - has begun training with Pulrose United.

The Isle of Man Football Association (IOMFA) is congratulating Butler who has also previously represented the Isle of Man at three national games in Gibraltar and claiming a gold medal during that time.

Meanwhile, Dylan's coach and IOMFA Disability Football Ambassador, Peter Corkhill adds: "During the last three years his confidence and ability have rocketed. He has been one of our most regular trainers and a fantastic advocate for our charity. It became clear and obvious to us that he was ready to take that next step and we are delighted he has. Everyone is looking forward to him breaking into the side and making his debut.

"We would like to place on record our thanks and gratitude to Mo Powlesland, Paul Henry and the whole Pulrose squad for the way in which they have welcomed Dylan into the team without hesitation or question.

"We are very lucky to have such a close connection to this great and inclusive club. We want to see more of our footballers take this next step and will be working with them throughout this year to identify and encourage players to take part in Manx football."

Butler has also represented the Special Olympics Isle of Man team in other disciplines over the last few years including athletics and swimming.

More from Isle of Man Sport