Unite For Access: Louis' story
To mark Level Playing Field's Unite For Access campaign this season, we spoke to Saints fan, Louis Dewar, about his journey following the club, and what accessibility means to him.
As part of Southampton Football Club’s ongoing commitment to making football accessible for all, we are proud to support Level Playing Field’s Unite for Access campaign across our upcoming games.
The initiative, which celebrates inclusion across sport and highlights the experiences of disabled supporters, will be spotlighted at Saints' Barclays WSL2 game against Birmingham on Sunday 15th March (2pm GMT), and EFL Championship clash with Oxford United at St Mary’s on Saturday 21st March (3pm GMT).
We spoke to supporter, Louis Dewar, who is also deaf, about his journey following Saints, his favourite memories at St Mary’s and what accessibility means to him. From unforgettable comebacks to the importance of clear visual information in the stadium, his story is a powerful reminder that football is for everyone and creating an inclusive matchday experience makes the game stronger for us all.
Louis, how did you first become a Saints fan and how long have you been following Saints?
I've been watching Saints since I was two years old, so for 25 years. My Dad has supported Saints since 1972, and my Granny and Grandad used to take him to the match. My Grandad used to be a doctor at the matches. My older brother supported them, so I wanted to go too! I have seen lot of matches since.
What is your favourite memory of Saints?
My favourite memory is when we played Liverpool in 2016 because we were two nil down and then some subs came on. We won the match 3-2 and I was so happy and relieved. Southampton were seventh and Liverpool seemed shocked to be only two places above! And my favourite player was Sadio Mané.
What keeps you coming back season after season?
I have grown up supporting them and I have seen lots of good games with my Dad and brother. Sometimes we lose but I always want to come back. As I am deaf, I prefer watching matches live in the stadium as it is easier to follow the action than on a screen.
What does being part of the Saints community mean to you?
The community are friendly, kind and supportive. Everyone chats about football and VAR decisions! I have played for the Saints Foundation for about 13 years and see other players at the stadium. I have also fundraised for them. Being part of the community is part of my life!
Louis has been involved with Saints Foundation for 13 years.
What does a perfect matchday at St Mary’s look like for you?
A Southampton win watched with my family in the sunshine!
What changes have made the biggest difference to your experience as a deaf fan?
The subtitles and information on the screen inside the stadium. The app has been really helpful.
How important is visual information (screens, captions, announcements) during the game?
This is very important for deaf supporters like me. It would be good to have more information on the screen and larger pictures.
What would you like hearing fans to better understand about the deaf experience at matches?
It would be helpful for them to be more aware of deaf people and try some sign language. If there is a goal they could wave rather than clap as we cannot hear clapping and we can see everyone wave. It would be good to tap a deaf person to get their attention and let them see your lips as you speak.
Be patient, speak slowly, don’t shout and be kind… we may not be able to hear you! Deaf fans love football and winning too!
