Flanagan's Football Files

I try to highlight inspirational stories from football that showcase equality, diversity, and inclusion in action within the game we all love. The EFL’s Building Foundations Fund, supported by Sky Bet, has already enabled many such initiatives to thrive.

One particularly heartening story involves Wrexham forward Paul Mullin, who has been instrumental in the club’s rise through the leagues and is currently on loan at Wigan Athletic. Away from the pitch, Mullin is also a father to a young autistic son, something that gives him a deep personal connection to inclusion.

During his time at Wigan, Mullin has become actively involved with the club’s Community Trust, supporting their 'Every Player Counts' programme. This scheme enables adults with a wide range of disabilities to compete in the Greater Manchester Ability Counts Football League. Beyond football, it also helps participants improve their physical and mental wellbeing, build social skills, grow in confidence, and develop lasting friendships.

Mullin gives his time to coaching sessions and is conscious of the privileged position football has afforded him. He is keen to give back to the community and admires the resilience of those who, as he puts it, 'work very hard just to earn a living and survive.'