Eagles Field New Team in Perth Football League Thursday, April 14, 2022 - 3:01 PM

Ocean Ridge Amateur FC have formed a team for this season’s Perth Football League Integrated Competition in a major boost to the local community. 

After years of attempting to get the team off the ground, the club now has the resources to support a new side. 

President Martin Ross has spearheaded the push, with an army of support coming from coaches, managers, and training assistants made up of players from the club. 

"We initially contacted WAAFA to express our interest and once we had approval to form a team the tasks included advertising for players, organising uniforms and working with the League to make this a reality. 

Our club received wonderful support from the disability services and support team at Buddiup, with players from North Beach FC and Wembley FC also part of our first Come-And-Try training session last week,” Ross said. 

The greatest challenge confronting the Eagles is to reach potential players.  

“We hope through advertising, and as our team grows, we can reach more potential players who may not know the team or competition exists. 

Since the side was given the green light, we’ve been overwhelmed by the response from the local community. 

The entire All Abilities community has been welcoming and supportive,” Ross said. 

Most players who’ve joined the team have one passion in common. 

“Many are avid AFL supporters and absolutely love the game. 

Our list ranges from 17–40-year-olds who are now able to show off their skills in a League which makes them feel at ease. 

The players are excited about all aspects of the game, including the social side of footy,” Ross said. 

In a huge boost for the Eagles, of the most respected providers of homecare and disability support services, Drake Medox, has joined the club as a major sponsor. 

WAFC Executive Officer of WA All Abilities Football Association, Hayden Marchetto, is delighted Ocean Ridge has joined the PFL. 

“Ocean Ridge approached the league and requested to enter a team in the Integrated Competition. 

They have the structure in place and their immediate catchment and partnership with Belridge High School will see the team grow throughout the year.  

We’re extremely excited about the Tigers entering the league. 

With assistance from Buddiup and other Integrated clubs in their inaugural year, Ocean Ridge will continue to evolve their membership beyond footy teams and truly become an inclusive community hub in our northern suburbs. 

We’d encourage anyone keen to join the Perth Football League this year and be part of Integrated Football, come down and get involved,” Marchetto said. 

The Eagles train every Thursday at Heathridge Park at 5pm, with their first match on Saturday April 23. 

If you or somebody you know is interested in joining Ocean Ridge this season, please contact Danni Warner Ocean Ridge Integrated Coordinator on 0408093301 or danni.warner15@gmail.com