Sydney, Australia, 23rd November, 2023: Special Olympics Australia is creating a space for inclusive football in partnership with A-league football team, the Western Sydney Wanderers.
The All Abilities Gala day will invite young people from across the state with intellectual disability or autism to take part in a full-day of football practice as part of this year’s International Day of People with Disability (3rd December).
Hosted by the Wanderers on Tuesday 28th November at the state-of-the-art Fives facility in Rooty Hill in Sydney, the event will be a chance for football fans of all abilities to be coached on the game and enjoy a fun day with peers.
As coaching and development partner for the event, the football team for Special Olympics Australia will be sharing their skills and experience with young soccer-stars, alongside some fan-favourite Wanderers players.
Local students aged 15+ and recent school leavers of all abilities are invited to participate in the free day, which will include five-a-side football games.Tickets are also available for friends and family to support.
Speaking about the day, Special Olympics Australia CEO Pierre Comis said “We’re delighted to partner with Western Sydney Wanderers FC and Presenting Partner, Nova Employment to deliver football fun for people with intellectual disability and autism. Sport has a unique way of bringing people together and building confidence on and off the pitch, so this is a great opportunity to come along and learn more about the important work Special Olympics Australia is doing, while playing the World Game.”
Scott Lockie, Philanthropy Manager at Western Sydney Wanderers Foundation said “The foundation was set up with the intention of supporting our local community, so we’re thrilled to be working with the Special Olympics Australia on this gala day. The partnership is a perfect way of celebrating athletes of all abilities and we’re looking forward to welcoming students and the Special Olympics Australia athletes to Rooty Hill.”
To support athletes with intellectual disability and autism, visit www.specialolympics.com.au.
About us:
About Special Olympics
Special Olympics began in Australia in 1976 when many people with an intellectual disability were shut in institutions. While this is no longer the norm in Australia, we continue to seek public support to ensure that people with intellectual disability and autism are not shut out. By helping us give them opportunities to play sport, together we can open the door to personal achievement, pride and inclusion.
Contact details:
For media enquiries or interview requests, please contact
specialolympics@iconagency.com.au
Or reach the team on:
Giorgia Rapella
E: giorgia.rapella@iconagency.com.au
P: +61 416 576 719
Saskia Gray
E: saskia.gray@iconagency.com.au
P: +61 401 311 449