SPECSAVERS is set to launch a Scotland-wide campaign, calling on aspiring commentators to help enhance the matchday experience for visually impaired football fans.
The optometrist chain is launching the Goalside Guide, a new pilot programme designed to bridge the gap between sight and sound for Scotland National Team supporters with visual impairments.
Created in partnership with the Scottish FA, the initiative will pair visually impaired fans with aspiring amateur commentators from across Scotland, offering real-time audio descriptions at the upcoming Scotland vs Iceland match at Hampden Park on June 6.
The chosen commentators will be put through their paces ahead of the match by current broadcast pundit, Leanne Crichton.
Leanne will aim to share some tips on how to enhance the experience for each pairing through real-time analysis, play-by-play descriptions, and insights into the game.
As part of the campaign, Specsavers hopes to develop fan connection to the game further, offering detailed commentary and vivid descriptions of the match, all while highlighting the importance of hearing health.
Specsavers’ Jenny Stephenson, Scottish divisional chair, says: “We’re thrilled to bring this project to life in partnership with the Scottish FA.
“The campaign will give fans who are blind or partially sighted a new way to experience the excitement of live football direct from the stadium.
“Hearing loss is a growing global health issue that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
“For those with visual impairments, however, good hearing health becomes even more critical.
“This is a great example of how hearing health can make a tangible difference to people’s lives, and we’re excited to raise awareness of the importance of good hearing alongside this impactful initiative.”
Announced as the official eye and ear care partner of the Scottish FA, Specsavers is marking 24 years of support and beyond for the partnership – one of the longest agreements of its kind in sport.?
The Specsavers and Scottish FA sponsorship programme not only supports with the training and development of referees, but also the growth of Scottish football in both the men’s and women’s game.
Michael Chisholm, head of partnerships for the Scottish FA says: “The Goalside Guide initiative demonstrates the synergy between the Scottish FA and Specsavers.
“Creating new ways for fans to enjoy the game while supporting both the players and referees is truly inspiring.
“We can’t wait to see the difference the campaign will make to the matchday experience for some of our fans, while potentially discovering a brand-new Scottish pundit.”
Specsavers is inviting aspiring football commentators throughout Scotland to apply as a Goalside Guide.
Those interested should submit their own home-made video commentaries, with the best five applicants selected to take part in the unique initiative.
To submit your video, please send your clips to [email protected]. The deadline for entries is Wednesday 14 May 2025.
