Leisure Networks to launch local disability football competition

LEISURE Networks will announce the launch of a local disability AFL football competition to provide greater opportunities for intellectually impaired players in the Greater Geelong region.

This Monday, October 3, the not-for-profit organisation will host an information night and initial draft which will be held at St Joseph’s Football Netball Club and be hosted by St Peters Cricket Club) to introduce players and fans to the new league concept.

The event will coincide with the presentation night for the Geelong Dragons, who are the present regional team for intellectually impaired players.

Leisure Networks has been the driving force behind the Geelong Dragons, who participate in the AFL Victoria Football Integration Development Association (FIDA), a competition for players with an intellectual impairment.

After forming the team in 2017 and playing off in the Western Conference of FIDA in 2018 and beyond, player numbers have risen from 40 to 76 despite the years affected by the pandemic.

Leisure Networks program co-ordinator Luke Maher said the exciting announcement would provide greater opportunities for those with intellectual impairments in the Geelong area.

“Extensive work has been done to make AFL footy accessible to all ages over the course of the last few years.

“After extensive conversations with local clubs, AFL Barwon and FIDA, we’re confident the Geelong region is in a position to start our own local disability competition.

“Newcomb and Lara have All Abilities Aus Kick Centres and Leisure Networks and AFL Vic have pushed further commitment, running an eigh-week program in four schools in the region: Nelson Park, Armstrong Creek, Hamlyn Views and Barwon Valley.

“The Geelong Dragons have just come off the back of reaching the FIDA Div 2 Grand Final and we believe that keeping the competition local will attract new players and new fans.”

Six clubs have already committed to inclusion and the establishment of teams for the 2023/2024 season.

Bell Park, Newcomb, Geelong West Giants and St Joseph’s are set to field teams in the inaugural season, while Lara and Surf Coast Suns are planning to jump on board in 2024.

Moving forward, Leisure Networks will assist clubs to take ownership of their own teams through player and volunteer recruitment, membership, administration and coaching.

Based in Geelong, Leisure Networks have provided services for people with a disability for more than 30 years and opportunities for them to connect with their community in a variety of ways including participation in sport and recreation, skill-building and array of social and leisure activities.