The New South Wales Physical Disabilities Rugby League Association (NSWPDRLA) recently joined forces with Windgap Foundation (Windgap), to stage an exhibition game of modified football designed for people with disabilities at half-time of last Friday’s Rabbitohs clash against the Roosters.
Hosted by Souths Cares, and supported by Rabbitohs Major Partner, Fujitsu, the match was an opportunity to showcase an inspirational game of Rugby League in front of the Rabbitohs faithful.
Souths Cares General Manager, Brock Schaefer, said that the charity was delighted to host the game.
“As soon as Fujitsu heard that we wanted to exhibit the sport they didn’t hesitate in throwing their support behind it,” he said.
“The concept behind the exhibition game was to demonstrate in a practical way, that Rugby League is a game for all ages and all peoples.
“Bringing NSWPDRLA (who founded the modified game) and Windgap, who provide so many services for people with intellectual disabilities together, seemed like an obvious partnership to our team.”
The tag and tackle style of football for players between 8 to 50 years, is growing in popularity with four teams currently in competition.
“The competition now consists of four teams; the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Sydney Roosters, Manly Sea Eagles and Newtown Jets,” said Brock.
“Interest in the game is also growing. Last Friday night’s game between the Rabbitohs and Roosters was well contested and resulted in a four-all draw – that’s a try apiece.
“Despite the game being modified the boys always fire up and the action is just fantastic.”
The team line ups on the night were:
Souths |
Roosters |
George Tonna |
Marik Gleizer |
Jono Smith |
Billy Bussell |
Craig Anderson |
Geoff Blarke |
Denzel Edwards |
Anthony Tonna |
Marco Quintao |
Charith De Silva |
Bob Syamdorkas |
Stephen Gammino |
Darren Cheung |
William Iguanzo |
Lucas Mallos |
Tolga Cinik |
Craig Rolfe |
Adrian Mailing |
|
|
Able Bodied |
Abled Bodied |
Daniel Hicks |
Liam Sue-Tin |
Justin McGinty |
Mark Rayner |
Angus Ng |
Dennis Papas |
George Tonna – founder and current Captain of their Rabbitohs team – said all the players enjoyed the game.
“Once again the NSWPDRLA would like to thank the team at Souths Carers and the Rabbitohs for giving us the opportunity to play in front of such a big crowd,” said George.
“The teams were blend of NSWPDRLA players as well as clients from Windgap – a big thanks to Angus Ng for his assistance in getting the Windgap boys there.
“We had great feedback on social media from people recognising the support given by Souths Cares and the Club.
“All the players had a ball and look forward to the ongoing support from Souths Cares and the Rabbitohs in future endeavours.”
If you would like to join the competition or perhaps volunteer, the guys at NSWPDRLA would love to hear from you. Look them up on Facebook or call George on 0402 773 045.
Find out more about the services Windgap provide by visiting their website: http://www.windgap.org.au.
