All Abilities competition kicks goals at season finale

THE Bell Park Dragons All-Abilities football team are the inaugural 2023 AFL Barwon All Abilities Football Netball League champions.

The Australian-first competition reached its climax on Saturday evening at Hamlyn Park, with the Dragons raising the cup after a 19-point victory over the Geelong West Giants.

A consolation grand final was also held between the third and fourth finishing teams Newcomb Power FNC and St Josephs FNC.

Leisure Networks program co-ordinator Luke Maher said both games were played in incredible spirit and were a great celebration of diversity, inclusion and community opportunity.

“It was so great to see all the players out there today, giving it their all.

“It’s been years in the making, and to see the results at this grand final today – it’s incredible.

“I am so proud of everyone involved, the players, their families, the clubs, our team here at Leisure Networks and of course all the support from AFL Barwon.”

 

Mr Maher said the AFL Barwon All Abilities Football League had given local athletes opportunities they had previously only dreamed about.

“Very few experiences have given the players in the AFL Barwon Inclusion League more of sense of connection with their community than playing our nation’s game in front of a crowd.

“A crowd not only full of family and friends, but also spectators from the broader public who had come to cheer on their skill and enthusiasm in the spirit of inclusion.”

 

AFL Barwon general manager Edward Wilson said the organisation were rapt with the community, players and stakeholders buy in throughout the season.

“The Grand Finals were a tremendous celebration to conclude the first season of this inaugural league.

“For AFL Barwon, it was humbling to see the significant crowd of supporters on Saturday, recognising the positive impact this league has had locally since Round 1 on April 29.

“We’re grateful for the support of Kardinia Park Stadium Trust and Leisure Networks, who worked side-by-side with AFL Barwon in the development and implementation of this league, providing equitable opportunities for all involved.

“The four inaugural clubs exceeded expectations in their involvement and we’re continuously amazed by the depth and enthusiasm so many people give of their time, to ensure equitable opportunities within our community”.

AFL Barwon is supportive of the competition growing with more teams in 2024.

For full results, head to 2023 AFL Barwon All Abilities Football Netball League page on PlayHQ.