In February 2018 CAFE was delighted to launch our expert Audio-descriptive Commentary (ADC) Network and Training Programme, bringing together the experiences and expertise of trainers from across Europe.

Since we were established in 2009, CAFE has worked to promote an inclusive game for all with a particular focus on the matchday experience of disabled fans.

As well as recommendations to improve stadium facilities, it can be equally important to implement accessible matchday services such as audio-descriptive commentary.

Audio-descriptive commentary is a dedicated service that can help partially sighted and blind fans to enjoy an inclusive matchday. In the context of a live football match, ADC ensures that the partially sighted or blind fan has a complete understanding of the match he or she is attending.

ADC can have a life-changing effect for many partially sighted and blind fans. You can learn more about some of their experiences here.

CAFE has worked with UEFA and our partners for a number of years to provide ADC at UEFA’s tournament Finals (UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League), as well as at all matches played during UEFA EURO 2012 and UEFA EURO 2016.

Having identified the need for a robust training package and an accredited certification to ensure high standards, CAFE undertook the decision to establish the CAFE Audio-descriptive Commentary Network.

The Network comprises of a number of expert ADC trainers, who have all worked with CAFE previously on audio-descriptive commentary training. The Network also covers several languages, including English, French, German and Ukrainian.

You can find out more about the CAFE Audio-descriptive Commentary Network trainers here.

In partnership with the CAFE Audio-descriptive Commentary Network, CAFE has created a bespoke ADC training package. The CAFE Audio-descriptive Commentary Training Programme outlines the level of training required for trainee commentators, and also provides technical broadcasting guidance.

CAFE will continue to work with our expert trainers on a consultancy basis, and they will provide the CAFE Audio-descriptive Commentary Training Programme to interested parties across Europe.

The CAFE Audio-descriptive Commentary Training Programme can be downloaded in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian and Swedish.

The CAFE Audio-descriptive Commentary Programme is open to national associations, leagues, clubs and venues. If you are interested in learning more about the Network or implementing the expert training package, please email [email protected] or call +44 (0)203 355 9867.