Kick Start to 2016 for Wembley Integrated Football Team
21 March, 2016
Community TAB is sponsoring the Wembley Integrated Football Team which is part of a program that provides an inclusive environment for males and females with an intellectual disability, ranging from 15 to 38 years of age.
The Wembley Integrated Football Team was founded in December 2013 and is run by a group of volunteers from the local area.
Community TAB’s sponsorship of the team allows them to purchase new goal post pads, footballs and post-season trophies.
Program Coordinator and Coach Alastair Mackenzie welcomed the sponsorship from Community TAB and said the program is extremely important to the Wembley area.
“The integrated program is important to the local area as it provides males and females with an intellectual disability the opportunity to be part of a community football club, providing both physical and social benefits that come with participating in team sport,” Mr Mackenzie said.
“New goal post pads allow us to host integrated home games at the same time as senior club games, which allows further inclusion in to the club with other supporters and players being present while the game is being played, and also provides an opportunity to mix with the wider club after each home game.
“New footballs for the season ensure we have the opportunity to train and play with correct official size footballs, and trophies allow us to recognise each individual player for participating in the program, and recognise individuals that have performed strongly throughout the season with our most determined, most improved, most consistent and coach’s awards.”
Mr Mackenzie said the goal for the 2016 season is to grow player numbers after finishing up with 18 players last season and three new players signed up for 2016 already.
“Our number one objective every season is to use football as a conduit to provide an inclusive environment where each and every player can come down, make new friends and feel part of a fantastic club.
“If we win games, that’s great, but we’ll also enjoy the losses!”
Community TAB Manager Matthew Thomas said sponsoring the Wembley Integrated Team aligns with other organisations that Community TAB supports.
“Community TAB recognises volunteer based organisations and programs within the WA community who are in need of support financially and in raising awareness,” Mr Thomas said.
“The importance and benefits of the Integrated program at Wembley Amateur Football Club is apparent to the families and individuals who are welcome to play a team sport and be incorporated within the club.
“Community TAB sponsors other volunteer based not-for-profit organisations that benefit people with disabilities such as Riding for the Disabled WA.”
The Community TAB sponsorship totals just under $4,000 for the team.
The first game for the Wembley Integrated Football Team is scheduled for Saturday 9 April.