Clubs to wear yellow armbands for Inclusion Round

AFL BARWON football and netball clubs are this week celebrating the third edition of Inclusion Round which is being run in partnership with Leisure Networks.

The round highlights both organisations’ commitment to creating a safe, inclusive and welcoming sporting environment for all individuals, regardless of their ability, background, gender, culture or identity.

To promote visibility and unity, all players and umpires participating in football and netball matches will wear yellow armbands, featuring the message ‘Together for Inclusion’.

This year, Pride celebrations will also be a key part of Inclusion Round.

Among the highlights is the pair of all-abilities footy matches today (Friday, June 13).

Newcomb’s Matilda Hrkac, Chloe Hoyle, Hunter Armstrong, Nick Veitch and Blake Ritchie ahead of Inclusion Round.

Geelong West Giants host Newcomb at 6pm while Bell Park welcome St Joseph’s at 5.30pm.

Newcomb’s Nick Veitch, 29, will be lining up for his third Inclusion Round match.

“It’s important because people obviously still judge people, it’s not good in a way,” he said.

“So we want to try and make that better for everyone.”

The games were to be played at GMHBA Stadium but were moved earlier this week due to the impact of wet weather.

All-abilities netball was played on Tuesday this week.

Another highlight is the marquee day of BFNL football and netball at Newcomb’s Grinter Reserve tomorrow (Saturday, June 14).

Portarlington’s Emily Lacy, Newcomb’s Matilda Hrkac and Chloe Hoyle with Portarlington’s Mackenzie Pigdon wearing their Inclusion Round armbands.

Club president Matt Farrow said the Power had been promoting a more inclusive approach across the past four years and also and had an all-abilities netball team.

Newcomb senior footballer Blake Ritchie, 24, is an independent support worker and has worked in the disability space for the past four years.

“We absolutely love having the all-abilities down at the club,” he said.

“The last few years, it’s brought a bit of fresh air into the club. We get to see them come down at training and they’re always having fun.

“I’ve joined in a few training sessions as well and it brings a smile to myself as well, as you can see them getting joy out of us coming down and all being in one group and including each other.”

AFL Barwon region general manager Lisa Patterson said Inclusion Round was a powerful reminder of what community sport is truly about; belonging, connection, and respect.

“With the valued support of Leisure Networks, we are continuing to build more inclusive, connected, and vibrant club environments.

“Whether through All Abilities competitions or Pride-focused education and celebration, our goal is to ensure everyone feels welcome and empowered to be part of the game.”

Portarlington’s Emily Lacy, Newcomb’s Blake Ritchie, Matilda Hrkac and Hunter Armstrong, Leisure Networks CEO David Meade, Portarlington’s Mackenzie Pigdon and Newcomb’s Nick Veitch and Chloe Hoyle.

Leisure Networks is a not-for-profit organisation supporting people with disabilities to be independent and connected in their community.

“Inclusion doesn’t happen by chance – it takes action, intention and strong partnerships,” chief executive officer David Meade said.

“Through our work with AFL Barwon, we’re supporting clubs to take meaningful steps toward building truly inclusive community environments where everyone feels seen, supported and celebrated.”

The Power host Portarlington at 2.10pm in the senior footy and the A grade netball starts at 1.50pm.