Mercedes College is involved in a pilot program through WA All Abilities Football who are leading the way in promoting inclusiveness in sport. Through partnerships the program uses football as a vehicle to promote physical activity to those people with a disability.
The program which is open to boys and girls from 9 to 16 years of age runs for four weeks in support units of mainstream schools or Ed Support schools as an introduction to AFL for students and teachers. Using modified sporting rules, it gives everyone the chance to play Australia’s game.
Mercedes College has eight students in the program which started in Term 2. They play twice a week and learn basic skills including how to kick, handball and work as a team – all of the basic foundation skills required for AFL.
On Tuesday (25 May) the Hon. Dr Tony Buti, Minister for Finance, Lands, Sport & Recreation, Citizenship and Multi-Cultural Interests visited the school to see the program in action. The Minister’s daughter also graduated from the College in 2011 and is passionate about inclusivity in sport.
Principal, Kerrie Fraser said the program was a great success. “The joy on the girls faces when they see what they can achieve with a ball or football is very special”.
At the end of the program, the girls will participate in the #nolimits ACC Inclusion Carnival against 10 other schools on 4 June. More than 150 students will be in attendance.
