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Football NSW celebrates 2023 NOVA Employment Football4all Gala Day

18 Jun 2023

Football NSW celebrated its thirteenth 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.

14 clubs took to the pitch and participated in small-sided games as well as off-field activities in a day celebrating inclusive football in what were perfect conditions.

Off-field activations were a huge hit at Football NSW headquarters as face painting, jumping castle, Inflatable dart board as well as a Special Olympics and Heartbeat of Football marquee were all present.

One huge attraction on the day was 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup official mascot Tazuni, who posed for photos and participated in games with lucky participants.

The event also featured special guest appearances from Karen Jones (Office of Sport CEO), Clr Julie Griffiths (Blacktown City Council Deputy Mayor), Mark Taylor (State Member for Winston Hills), Kerry Spindler (Operations Manager at NOVA Employment), Gilbert Lorquet (Football NSW Chairman) and Deborah Chapman (Football NSW Board Members), as well as Sydney FC, Western Sydney Wanderers, ParaMatildas and Pararoos players who were present on the day and assisted in various presentations.

“It was amazing to see so many smiling faces in what was my first ever Football4all Gala Day as CEO of Football NSW,” said Football NSW Chief Executive Officer John Tsatsimas.

“The Gala Day proved how powerful our sport is as everybody that participated from the players, coaches, referees and carers all played a pivotal role in bringing this wonderful day to life.

“It’s clear to see why the Football4all Gala Day is the showpiece event on our Football NSW calendar.

“NOVA Employment Football4all is a fantastic initiative which Football NSW will continue to grow and develop for many more 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.

The excitement was evident at the Futsal court also as Powerchair Football took centre stage with matches involving Hills United FC, Western Sydney Wanderers, Newcastle Jets and Sydney FC all contributed to a brilliant day of inclusive football.

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 2023 NOVA Employment Football4all Gala Day.

Clubs that participated: