Western Sydney Wanderers FC are proud to announce a new partnership with the NSW Service for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS) to provide refugee and asylum seeker women and girls with an opportunity to participate in a weekly football program.
This partnership is made possible through the Australian Government’s $136 million investment in sporting grants across Australia, which aims to help more than 100,000 women and girls enjoy better facilities at their local clubs.
Held at the Wanderers Fives facility in Rooty Hill, the program will create a safe and welcoming environment for participants to engage in football activities suitable for all abilities, while also fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Wanderers Fives is a purpose-built, self-contained facility with nine small-sided, all-weather pitches. As part of the program, participants will also have access to a dedicated classroom space, which will be used to provide a child-minding service for young mothers, ensuring that all women have the opportunity to take part in the sessions.
Participants in the program will be identified and supported by STARTTS, with transport provided to and from the facility. Upon arrival, they will be guided through structured football activities by fully trained Wanderers community coaches. Each session will run for 90 minutes, incorporating regular breaks, and participants will also receive culturally appropriate and nutritious food.
Western Sydney Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson highlighted the importance of using football as a tool for social inclusion and empowerment.
“Football has an incredible power to bring people together, and we are committed to ensuring that everyone in our community has access to the game,” said Hudson.
“This partnership with STARTTS reflects our club’s values of inclusivity and support for those who have faced adversity. By providing a safe space for refugee and asylum seeker women and girls to play, connect, and grow, we hope to make a meaningful impact in their lives. We would also like to sincerely thank the Australian Government for their support in making this initiative possible.”
Hudson also spoke about the broader role of the Wanderers in creating opportunities for underrepresented groups in the community.
“At the Wanderers, we are more than just a football club – we are a community club. Programs like this are essential in breaking down barriers to participation and making football accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. We are incredibly proud to be working alongside STARTTS to deliver this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have.”
The program is set to commence in the coming weeks, with both organisations working closely to ensure a welcoming and supportive experience for all participants.
