Football NSW Celebrates 12th Annual NOVA Employment Football4all Gala Day

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A day of celebration at all levels of the game, Football NSW celebrated its twelfth annual NOVA Employment Football4all Gala Day at Valentine Sports Park on Sunday as over 350 participants took part in what was Australia’s biggest ‘All Abilities’ football event.

With smiles on each of the participants faces visible following a two-year hiatus from participating in the annual event due to COVID restrictions, a total of 13 teams took to the pitch and played in small-sided games as well as off-field activities in a day celebrating inclusive football.

The brisk morning saw the weather turn into nothing but blue skies and perfect conditions all round in a day filled with festivities and joy.

Off-field activations were a huge hit with all participants as face painting, jumping castle, MiniRoos Shoot Out and Inflatable dart board as well as the Police and Fire Rescue were all in attendance.

Each player also had the pleasure of meeting some of their ParaMatildas and Pararoos idols while MiniRoos mascot Maloo was also a key attraction.

The event also featured special guest appearances from Kevin Conolly (State Member for Riverstone), Councillor Singh (Blacktown City Council), Kerry Spindler (NOVA Employment Operations Manager), Football NSW Board Members Gilbert Lorquet, Deborah Chapman, Stephanie Brantz, Western Sydney Wanderers, ParaMatildas and Pararoos players who assisted in the day’s presentation.

Football NSW CEO Stuart Hodge acknowledged the amazing feats NOVA Employment Football4all Gala Day has reached throughout its twelve-year journey.

“It was amazing to see so many happy faces at yet another marvellous NOVA Employment Football4all Gala Day following its two-year absence due to COVID lockdowns.

“The gala day has always proven to be a showpiece event on the Football NSW calendar, with the event growing yearly in both size and media coverage.

“Football NSW is committed to supporting opportunity for people with disabilities to participate in football as players, coaches, referees or administrators and we are committed to developing an environment where accessibility and diversity are valued and nurtured.

“NOVA Employment Football4all is a fantastic initiative which Football NSW will continue to grow and develop for years to come.”

A big thank you to NOVA Employment in particular Martin Wren the CEO of NOVA Employment who had his amazing staff run the barbeque for several hours as well as the support from A-League clubs Macarthur FC, Sydney FC and the Western Sydney Wanderers who offered their support with giveaways.

It was excitement plus also at the Futsal court as Powerchair Football was in full swing with over 20 players participating in the day’s games.

Football NSW would like to thank all the *clubs, associations, staff, and volunteers who were involved in making the day such a success and would like to especially congratulate all the participants, coaches, and family members for their inspirational support for the 2022 NOVA Employment Football4all Gala Day.

*Clubs that participated Mt Druitt Town Rangers, Kellyville Kolts, NSFA & Northern Tigers FC Frame Football, Nepean Dragons FC, NWSF Football4all PINK, Active Opportunities – Cromer Park Manly, Snapparoos, Macarthur Magic Special Needs FC, Balmain All Abilities, West Pennant Hills Cherrybrook FC, St Ives FC All Abilities, Open Goals Kings Langley, Kickaroos Hills Knights.