During Black History Month, a chance to listen to and be inspired by a Black Role Model. A promising footballer who went on to represent Team GB at the Paralympic Games, Alistair Patrick-Heselton’s story is one of perseverance and determination. Starting out at Wycombe Wanderers as a schoolboy, Alistair showed great potential from an early age, and was soon snapped up by Queen’s Park Rangers. However, in 2006, the striker was involved in a car accident which claimed the life of his best friend, fracturing his skull and spending two months in a coma. He later resumed consciousness but was informed that he may never walk again, seemingly ending his football career. Four years on, Alistair was contacted by then-England and Team GB Paralympic coach Lyndon Lynch, who convinced the former prospect of trying out for the CP team, consisting of players with cerebral palsy and other brain injuries. Alistair became a shining star for his country, playing a crucial role in the lead-up to the 2012 BT Paralympic World Cup final. He led the fightback in the final against Brazil, pulling back England’s second goal in a courageous 4-2 defeat.

He went on to represent Team GB at the Paralympic Games four months later, laying on three assists and finding the back of the net against Argentina.

Alistair now acts as a mentor and speaker for the next generation of footballers.