All Abilities Football celebrated
It was a memorable week for the round ball game as the Western Sydney Wanderers celebrated ‘All Abilities Football’ with the help of 9 Football NSW Football4All programs at Spotless Stadium on Friday 7th December.
The day itself was dedicated to International Day of People with Disability, a day that is aimed to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.
During half-time of the Western Sydney Wanderers clash against the Central Coast Mariners, nine Football NSW Football4All clubs were invited to participate in a half-time activation as well as a lap of honour dedicated to those involved in inclusive football programs.
The ‘Wanderlap’ was led by NSW Powerchair players who made it back just in time to see Andy Waite beat the Guinness World Record attempt for the highest number of spins in a Powerchair.
The success of the day was as a result of the collaboration between Western Sydney Wanderers, Hills Football Association and Football NSW.
Hills Football Director Eddie Palaci was delighted to see ‘All Abilities Football’ honoured at the sports’ highest level.
“Football is clearly leading when it comes to inclusion and diversity.
“What a magical and historical demonstration of inclusion with the Football4All players participating at half time and during the lap of honour – a true celebration of International Day of People with Disability.”
Western Sydney Wanderers Community Engagement Manager Josh Hunter was delighted to have hosted such an event.
“It is with great pleasure that the Wanderers could provide an experience where the players can feel what it is like to be a professional player in front of our home crowd on the main pitch.
“Wanderers would like to commend all the families and participants who took part in the game-day experience and would like to commend the organisers of the many all abilities programs in Football NSW.
“Friday night showed the true power of football and why we all love this game.”
The clubs and programs involved on the day included:
- Balmain and District Football Club Football4All program
- Castle Hill United Football4All program
- CP Alliance
- Doyalson Wyee SC Football4All program
- Hills Knights Football4All program
- Kellyville Kolts Football4All program
- Mount Druitt Rangers
- NSW Powerchair Team
- Rouse Hill Rams Football4All program
