Avondale FC is continuing to reach out to community organisations to bring football to children with disabilities, this time partnering with the Extended Families Australia, an organisation dedicated to supporting people with disabilities.
A football clinic will be held on Monday, September 26, with 40 participants with disabilities aged up to 30 years, plus over 20 parents, already confirmed to attend.
The clinic will be held at the Avengers’ home ground in Doyle Street, Avondale Heights from 10am, with a barbeque and other social activities taking place on the sidelines.
Extended Families Australia is a group supporting young people in Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula through building friendships and connecting with the community.
Club technical director and program coach Mick Gallo and his wife Jessica, who are parents to children with autism, will be leading the program and will be teaching a range of football skills – including dribbling, passing and shooting – on the day.
“This is something we as individuals and a club feel passionate about, as we want to give back and provide a fun, safe, football experience for these kids,” Gallo said.
“My wife Jessica – a qualified integration aide – and I decided as part of the club’s family vision and philosophy that we wanted to give back and provide for more than the mainstream schools and groups.
“We are creating a great network between Avondale FC and these community organisations, and look forward to developing these programs further in the future by giving the kids the chance to enjoy the beautiful game of football, and put a smile on their faces, with the hope of running more of these in the future for children within the municipality.
“We would like to pay particular attention to friends and sponsors of Avondale FC. CJ from CM Sports, Craigieburn who will be supplying shin guards for the kids involved. As well as Tony and his CMS Meats team, Hadfield and Strathmore, who is supplying all of the meat for the BBQ at no charge, as well as Avondale FC coaches and friends who will all be giving up their time for this event.”
Coach education manager Craig Moore and FFV all abilities program coordinator Megan Smith will be in attendance at the clinic.
Ben Roche, a 7-a-side Pararoos Athlete, who will also captain the Victorian team at the National Paralympic Championship, and is the FFV all abilities ambassador, will also be in attendance.
For further information, all enquiries can be directed to Avondale FC technical director Mick Gallo on 0449 767 235.