Home

Anyone’s game: All Abilities Football Inclusion Carnival is a day in the park for Albany kids

Josiah McMeekinAlbany Advertiser
Alex Anderson, 13, prepares a shot on goals.
Camera IconAlex Anderson, 13, prepares a shot on goals. Credit: Josiah McMeekin

A few light showers could not dampen the enthusiasm of the Spencer Park Primary and Albany Secondary Education Support Centre students at Thursday’s Football Inclusion Carnival.

Organised by WA All Abilities Football Association together with Starkick, the event brought kids of all abilities together to play some footy.

The event was a big success with plenty of fun on the field, a sausage sizzle lunch and a small awards ceremony at the end of the day.

Gracie Holland, 10, with Rick the Eagle.
Camera IconGracie Holland, 10, with Rick the Eagle. Credit: Josiah McMeekin

WAAAFA Executive Officer Hayden Marchetto says he wants to create opportunities for everyone to play football.

“Our programs allow people with a disability to be involved and participate in Australian rules football like every other Australian,” he said.

“Football serves as a cornerstone in building community connections and fostering inclusivity.”

He hopes through inclusive carnivals and programs such as Starkick there will be a greater capacity within Albany for kids with disabilities to be part of the community through football.

“By showcasing that anyone can play, hopefully you can bring the community along,” he said.

Alex Anderson, 13, Jake Badger, 14, and Cody Hope, 14.
Camera IconAlex Anderson, 13, Jake Badger, 14, and Cody Hope, 14. Credit: Josiah McMeekin
Alaki Washington, 11 shows off a friendly butterfly during lunch.
Camera IconAlaki Washington, 11 shows off a friendly butterfly during lunch. Credit: Josiah McMeekin
Troy Woods, 12, and Hayden Machetto.
Camera IconTroy Woods, 12, and Hayden Machetto. Credit: Josiah McMeekin
Obi Manuel, 12, and Rick the Eagle.
Camera IconObi Manuel, 12, and Rick the Eagle. Credit: Josiah McMeekin
Alex Anderson, 13, and Troy Woods, 12.
Camera IconAlex Anderson, 13, and Troy Woods, 12. Credit: Josiah McMeekin
Albany Football Carnival for kids of all abilities.
Camera IconAlbany Football Carnival for kids of all abilities. Credit: Josiah McMeekin
Kids from Spencer Park Primary and Albany Secondary Education Support Centre having a fun kick of the footy.
Camera IconKids from Spencer Park Primary and Albany Secondary Education Support Centre having a fun kick of the footy. Credit: Josiah McMeekin
The amazing Rapid Relief Team made lunch for the hungry young stars.
Camera IconThe amazing Rapid Relief Team made lunch for the hungry young stars. Credit: Josiah McMeekin

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails