Balloon Football League crowns champions

BENDIGO’S Balloon Football League reached its climax last Friday at Red Energy Arena.

The sport is a modified version of Aussie Rules football for adults with disabilities, played on a basketball court with a large balloon for a ball and five players in wheelchairs per team.

It has been run by Scope for more than 20 years, with the Bendigo league established about six years ago.

Out of eight teams the final came down to the Bulldogs and the Saints, with the Bulldogs victorious in the end.

Community inclusion manager at Scope, Danni Hall, said the sport has been growing in popularity every year, due to its physical benefits and enabling those with disabilities to compete.

“Scope is passionate about balloon football because it was created by and for people with a lived experience of disability,” she said.

“Community sport is a great way to build a vibrant community and it plays a vital role in promoting both physical and mental health.

“However most importantly, this is a real competition, white line fever definitely takes over and the players have some serious skills.

“We’re just so happy to see it back on the court after a tough couple of years with COVID restrictions.”

Long-time Bendigo player Matthew Rodda said he looks forward to playing with his team each week.

“It helps me be team oriented, not think individually,” he said.

“Friendship, competitiveness, it’s some excitement every week and something to look forward to.”