Western Sydney Wanderers FC together with the Wanderers Foundation have raised over $50,000 for the club’s All Abilities Programs at their recent home match day against Newcastle Jets.
The match day would not have been possible without the generous support of The Benevolent Society, Nova Employment, Support Agency, Beyond Care and McCallGardens.
The partners held stalls outside of CommBank Stadium giving out information about their services for people with a disability as well as distributing over 500 tickets to people with a disability to enjoy the match.
Over 100 people with a disability also took part in a half-time extravaganza, which included a Wanderlap around the pitch at half-time led by the Western Sydney Wanderers Powerchair Team.
All funds raised from the match day will go to the Wanderers Powerchair Team and Foundation’s Inclusive Football Programs which are run in support units across schools in Western Sydney for individuals with an intellectual disability.
Western Sydney Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson spoke highly of the success and impact the Wanderers All Ability Match Day had on the community.
“We are very grateful for the support of a number of partners and Western Sydney community in coming together to support and raise much needed funds for AllAbilities football,” said Hudson.
“To see the smiles on the faces of so many participants and carers made this match day one to remember.
“The Wanderers are more than just a football club and it is very important for us to be not only an avenue for education and information, but also enjoyment, as this is what sets our football club apart.
“I would like to personally thank all our generous partners for their support of this initiative and we are very excited to make it even bigger in season 2024/25.”
The Benevolent Society Acting Manager Michelle Williams spoke about the experience for both the participants and carers.
“The Benevolent Society – Carer Gateway were thrilled to be part of the Western Sydney Wanderers All Abilities match recently. It was a wonderful day supporting people with disability and we were proud to stand alongside the other service providers to support our NDIS participants and their families,” said Williams.
“For carers, it’s crucial they prioritise relaxation and time for themselves alongside their carer responsibilities and this event was a great opportunity for 200 of our carers and their families to enjoy a great day of football. Watching 20 carers take part in the half time field walk and seeing the smiles and sheer delight on the faces of everyone at the All Abilities event was a real highlight for our entire Carer Gateway team.”
NOVA Employment CEO Martin Wren praised the incredible day.
“What an incredible, inclusive day! Our participants had a fantastic time with their families and are still thrilled about being on the field,” said Wren.
“Congratulations to everyone involved!”
Support Agency General Manager Nikki Frances highlighted the importance of sport being showcased to be accessible for all.
“Support Agency was thrilled to be a part of the All Abilities round, it highlights that sport can be accessible to all. The Wanderers fans created an incredible atmosphere, which makes it impossible to not get amongst it, even for first timers like us,” said Frances.
“We’re looking forward to building a long relationship and creating even more fans of the sport.”
Beyond Care CEO Gaurav Jairath thanked the Wanderers Foundation for making this experience possible.
“Beyond Care clients felt joyous after attending the game. Most of our clients attended a football game for the first time and they would like to do this more often. I believe the ground atmosphere and sense of inclusion on the day made them happier,” said Jairath.
“There were a few clients with Autism who attended the game and were happy to be on the ground in front of huge crowd. These clients usually do not like to be in a big group or in a noisy atmosphere. However, they have also enjoyed the day and attended the whole game. Thank you to you and your team for making this possible.”
McCall Gardens Chief Operating Officer Belinda Reeves praised the opportunity to champion inclusivity at a match day.
“McCall Community Services is honoured to have participated as a proud partner for the Wanderers recent A-League Men’s match against the Newcastle Jets,” said Reeves.
“Our involvement in the event provided a platform to champion inclusivity, promote disability awareness, and highlight the capabilities of individuals with diverse disabilities. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Western Sydney Wanderers FC and support their initiatives that foster a more inclusive and accepting community.”
The Wanderers Foundation is already starting preparations for their 2024/25 All Abilities Fixture and welcome any support. To find out more email foundation@wswanderersfc.com.au
