Nearly 20 players converged in Vernon over the weekend for the B.C. Storm Power Soccer tournament.

The 15th annual event saw those with mobility issues using power chairs, complete with specialized bumpers, push an oversized soccer ball around the Vernon Secondary School gymnasium. It is the first time the event has come to Vernon, since being hosted by Penticton for the last 14 years.

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Players ranged in age from Coldstrean鈥檚 own 15-year-old Jacob Brayshaw, with his signature frizzy red hair, to a 71-year-old. Each has varying disabilities including muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, brain injuries and rheumatoid arthritis.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a great opportunity for youth and adults to socialize with others with the same interests and it gives them a chance to be very active and competitive in their sport,鈥� said organizer Michelle McCullough, who is Brayshaw鈥檚 mom.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a great outlet, especially if you have a disability,鈥� said Brayshaw. 鈥淵ou can blow off steam so you don鈥檛 lose your mind.鈥�

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