WA Deaf Auskick trial kicks offWednesday, October 26, 2022 - 1:47 PM - by Rachael Osborne

Football is a sport that is breaking barriers and becoming all-inclusive, for everyone, of all abilities. 

Currently, Western Australian Football has programs such as WAFC’s Starkick program, Auskick for kids with disabilities, All Abilities and Integrated Football run through the Perth Football League, and now for the first time -- the inclusion of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (D/HOH) ‘Deaf Auskick’ aimed at helping deaf kids play the game they love.

Upon noticing a severe under-representation of deaf and hard of hearing participating in AFL, Phil Harper, General Manager of Deaf Sports Australia, set out to grow the interest, awareness, and participation.

“We gained a Sport Australia participation grant to grow interest and participation opportunities in AFL through offering Auskick programs for deaf and hard of hearing kids in QLD, WA and Vic; providing deaf awareness training to the AFL industry on all levels, as well as trial and AFL deaf competition similar to their existing inclusion programs for people in wheelchairs, people with a vision loss and those with intellectual impairment,” Mr Harper said 

“We are working with local AFL and deaf organisations to support this development and it is pleasing to have the Western Australia deaf recreation association, WAFC, WAAFC, Access Plus, Harcourts and WA Foundation of Deaf Children supporting us.” 

The six-week program commenced on October 16 at Shenton College in the Auskick program, tailored for ages 5 to 12.  

The Auskick program is based on the existing program where the kids will learn the basics, develop their skills and most importantly have fun. 

?Phil said the Western Australia six-week trial will be a game changer for many families. 

“Having a sport or recreation program available for deaf and hard of hearing kids is critical to enable them to enjoy an activity that is accessible and relaxing. They do not have to worry about communication access as the leaders are a mix of deaf people as well as others who are fluent in AUSLAN or understand their communication and participation needs,” he said. 

“The overall aim is for the AFL to embed the programs into their existing AFL programs in the future.” 

While the trial has already commenced, spots are still available. 

Anyone interested in being involved is urged to contact Rob at Starkick@wafc.com.au.