Falcons Fly the Flag for ‘Footy For All’Thursday, December 5, 2013 - 1:09 PM

The Falcons District showcased AFL football at a special event run by the Disability Services Commission at Mullaloo Beach on Tuesday, April 3.

The event was held as part of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPwD) day which aims to promote an understanding of people with disability and encourage support for their dignity, rights and well-being.

The day also seeks to increase awareness of the benefits of the integration of people with disability in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

Around 50-100 people attended the event at Mullaloo Beach in windy conditions, including business, community organisation, and government representativesto celebrate and acknowledge the contributions, skills and achievements of people with disability.

The Falcons District staff enabled people from all age groups to experience AFL by having a go at activities incorporating handballing, kicking and tackling.

They also discussed ways of experiencing AFL through their toddler Fundamental Movement skills program, through the Auskick program, and by joining Integrated Football through the Ocean Ridge Amateur Football Club, or Quinns Districts Amateur Football Club. Both clubs are the two newest clubs to join the Integrated Football League, run by the WA Amateur Football League in 2014.

Integrated Football is a unique program offered to people (both male and female) over the age of 16 with an intellectual disability to become involved in community football.

The Falcons, along with Ocean Ridge Amateur Football Club and Quinns Districts Amateur Football Club will also be hosting a special ‘Come and Try’ day at the Joondalup Arena on Saturday, February 1 at 10am.

Any new players aged over 16 with intellectual disabilities are encouraged to come and have a go at football on the day, and find out more about joining the Integrated Football League.

Emerging Markets Development Officer for the Falcons District Scott Minchin said the goal was to remove any barriers for being involved in football in the District, whether it’s through playing, coaching, officiating or administration work.

"It’s a great step forward for two of our Amateur clubs to join the Integrated Football League in 2014. We are currently exploring other opportunities to make football available for everyone of all abilities at all ages,” he said.

For more information about how to become involved in football in the Falcons District, or to register for the ‘Come and Try Day’ please contact District Manager, Andrew Ridley on 9300 3611, or email dm@falconsfc.com.au.