On 20^th February, Joe Simmons who runs EASST presented a cheque for £1,000 to GB Deaf Women's football player Lisa Nepean.

Lisa, aged 21, succeeded in getting the grant from EASST (Essex and Southend Sport Trust) to help her in reaching her goal of raising the £3,000 needed for her to represent Great Britain at the Taiwan Deaflympics 2009 in August.

Joe Simmons with Lisa Neapan

Joe Simmons awarded the cheque to Lisa Nepean, in recognition of the dedication and commitment that Lisa Nepean has shown in her hard training that has led to her being selected as one of the final GB Deaf Women's Football squad.

The Essex and Southend Sports Trust (EASST) provide charitable grants in support of sport and in particular football and cricket. The geographical area in which it operates is strictly limited to Southend-on-sea and the county of Essex.

Lisa would like to thank Joe Simmons and EASST for their support, saying "without the kind support and recognition from the community, it would be almost impossible for me to take my place at the Olympics. I cannot thank you enough for helping turn my dream into a reality" and looks forward to sharing her experiences with them when she returns, hopefully with a medal!.

More good news to follow with other GB Deaf Women footballers....