Ipswich Town Foundation is delighted to announce Chieo Ogbene as its new Disability Ambassador.

The Republic of Ireland international takes on the role having built strong relationships with the Foundation’s disability participants since joining the Club last Summer.

Since suffering an Achilles injury in Town’s fixture against Brentford in October, Chieo has demonstrated a passion and attitude towards his work in the community, and has been determined to contribute off the pitch whilst he can’t on the pitch.

“After my injury, I wanted to offer myself in other ways and try to embed myself in the community,” Chieo told TownTV.

“I started attending the sessions and I fell in love with the people I’m working with, so when the opportunity came up to be an Ambassador I wanted to take up the role.”

Chieo takes over the role from George Edmundson, who worked tirelessly to build and develop his relationship with the Foundation’s disability participants prior to his departure to Middlesbrough in January.

Since his first visit in December, a Christmas Party hosted for the disability programme, the Town wide man has developed genuine connections with the participants across the diverse provision, and has been able to break the news to some of the participants himself.

“I was nervous!” Chieo added. “I’m happy with how well they took to me when I announced it, and they were happy to have me so that made me happy as well – I’m grateful!”

Over the past two seasons, the Foundation’s disability provision has grown, with over 100 participants now engaged with on a weekly basis across five sessions; Adult PAN Disability, Youth PAN Disability, Frame Football, Powerchair Football, and Comets.

The announcement comes as part of the build-up to Saturday’s Foundation Fixture, with Town’s clash against Wolves a celebration of the work being carried out in the community.

The day provides an essential fundraising and awareness raising of the Foundation’s work, with all donations supporting those most in need in Ipswich and wider Suffolk.

To donate, visit the Foundation’s Crowdfunder page here, or text ITFC followed by the amount you wish to donate (i.e. ITFC10 to donate £10) to 70580.