Bringing the Community Together
Sport has the unique power to connect people, and on September 18, that community spirit was on full display. GippSport proudly partnered with Interchange to host a dedicated All Abilities AFL Football Session for disability service providers and participants from across the East Gippsland and Wellington regions.
Held in Lucknow, just five minutes from Bairnsdale, the accessible location ensured that participants from surrounding communities could easily take part in the action.
A Focus on Choice and Comfort
The session welcomed 20 participants from a range of local disability service providers. Rather than a rigid coaching clinic, the day was designed completely around the participants.
A key focus of the event was providing choice allowing everyone to engage with the AFL activities in a way that felt comfortable and enjoyable for them. Participants were encouraged to get involved at their own pace, with the session providing flexible opportunities to develop footy skills, try new activities, and most importantly, enjoy being involved in community sport alongside their peers.
The Power of Local Collaboration
The atmosphere on the day was incredibly positive, proving the massive value of providing local, inclusive sporting opportunities.
This event highlighted the true benefits of regional collaboration. By working closely with Interchange and local disability service providers, GippSport was able to connect participants with a sporting opportunity that might not otherwise have been readily available in the region. It is a perfect example of how local partnerships can create meaningful opportunities for people with a disability to participate, connect, and belong.
Looking Ahead: An Annual Tradition?
Following the overwhelming success of the session and the fantastic feedback from both participants and providers, there is now an exciting opportunity for this All Abilities AFL Football Session to become an annual program.
Continuing this initiative would provide an ongoing platform for people with a disability in East Gippsland and Wellington to play footy, build lasting community connections, and experience the physical and social benefits of inclusive sport.
Want to Get Involved?
If you are a disability service provider, a local sporting club, or an individual looking to get involved in inclusive sports programming, we want to hear from you.
