In a remarkable initiative, West Ham United players, including Captain Jarrod Bowen and other first-team members, have learned to sign the club's iconic anthem in British Sign Language (BSL). This move is part of an effort to improve matchday accessibility for deaf fans.
West Ham United marked Deaf Awareness Week by releasing a video that showcases an inclusive interpretation of the club's anthem, "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles." The video features members of the Disabled Supporters’ Association (DSA), deaf supporters, and men’s team players signing a line of 'Bubbles' in BSL. The participating players include captain Jarrod Bowen, Mads Hermansen, Kyle Walker-Peters and Freddie Potts. This initiative aims at fostering inclusivity within sports culture while also raising awareness about the challenges faced by deaf individuals.
West Ham captain, Jarrod Bowen, said:
“Taking part in this was a really special experience. Bubbles means so much to everyone connected to West Ham, and learning to sign it gave us a new perspective on how important it is that all supporters can share in those moments together. I’m sure it’s something fans will be proud to see before the game on Sunday.”
The inclusive interpretation video will be played on the big screens at London Stadium as teams walk out ahead of Sunday’s London derby against Arsenal. This gesture not only enhances matchday accessibility but also serves as a powerful symbol of unity among all fans regardless of their physical abilities.
Initiative proposed by DSA
The idea for this innovative project was originally proposed by the DSA as part of their ongoing work to improve accessibility. Their goal is ensuring all fans can feel fully connected to the matchday experience irrespective of any hearing impairments they may have.
Working in collaboration with Performance Interpreting, participants were guided through learning and performing the song in BSL. The partnership between these organizations demonstrates how collaborative efforts can lead towards creating more inclusive environments within sports arenas. This initiative taken up by West Ham United stands testament to how sports clubs can play an instrumental role in promoting inclusivity and accessibility. By learning to sign their club's anthem in BSL, the players have not only learned a new skill but also contributed towards making sports events more accessible for deaf fans.
This move is expected to inspire other clubs and organizations to take similar steps towards ensuring that all fans, regardless of their physical abilities, can fully enjoy the thrill and excitement of matchday experiences.
