VWFL Tiger Chris Henderson to play in front of home crowd

THE Robert Rose Foundation Victorian Wheelchair Football League (VWFL) is leaving the city behind and bringing Round 9 of the competition to the Surf Coast.

For the first time in its five-year history, the league will host matches in regional Victoria including at Torquay’s Wurdi Baierr Stadium on July 9 when the Collingwood Magpies take on the Hawthorn Hawks and the Richmond Tigers take on the St Kilda Saints.

Governed by AFL Victoria, the VWFL provides Victorians with a physical disability the opportunity to play AFL in an elite competition.

Torquay local and Richmond Tigers Wheelchair team captain Chris Henderson said he couldn’t wait to be playing in front of his home crowd.

The Richmond Tigers, led by team captain Chris Henderson will be taking on the St Kilda Saints on July 9. Photo: MARION PHILLIPS/TRAVELLINGMAZ

“I can’t believe it’s happening, it’s so exciting that the league is coming to the Surf Coast.

“It’s so great that kids coming through who have disabilities can now have a pathway to that elite level through the VWFL.

“It’s a sport they can ultimately feel apart of.

“There’s actually a bunch of players who live in Geelong and the Surf Coast, so for us to be at home showing our local community what we’ve got is going to be really special.”

Victorian Wheelchair Football League head of media and commentary Austin Krueger said it was exciting the league was broadening its horizons to get more eyes on the game.

The VWFL provides players with a physical disability the opportunity to play AFL at an elite level. Photo: NERISSA BYRNE PHOTOGRAPHY

“It’s so exciting to come down the coast and bring this game to such a wonderful part of the world.

“Wheelchair football is a wonderful game that’s especially memorizing in person.

“It’s one thing to watch it online and see clips, but you can really gain some serious appreciation for the game after you’ve seen the spectacle in person.

“I think people will be surprised with just how quick, skilled, physical and tactical the whole league is.

“We can’t wait to showcase our game and show the locals how great it is.”

Mr Krueger said the sense of camaraderie and inclusiveness associated with the VWFL would certainly stand out to match attendees.

“It (VWFL) brings in friendship, relationships, physical activity and everything more.

“It’s a wonderful culmination of people in a wonderful environment that allows anyone to play football and be a part of a community and something that’s growing and growing each year.”

Matchups will begin at Wurdi Baierr Stadium at 11am.

For more information, head to aflvic.com.au/inclusion/inclusion/afl-inclusion-programs/robert-rose-foundation-victorian-wheelchair-football-league