THE Mitchell Ranges Soccer Club is one of 88 recipients of the State Government’s Regional All Abilities Participation Grants program, which it will use to support its own All Abilities program.
The club has received $23,971 and will use the money to support the accessibility and engagement of football for people living with a disability within the shire.
Mitchell Rangers Football Club Secretary Liberty Fletcher said the grant would be used to “remove barriers to participation, this grant will cover the costs of running the Mitchell Rangers Soccer Club All-Abilities Program for players and the club and support its expansion”.
“Mitchell Rangers has made registrations, uniforms, and all associated costs free for all players in the all-abilities program,” she said.
“By eliminating these financial barriers, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate”
The Mitchell Rangers All-Abilities soccer program commenced in 2017 and is free for players to join.
It encourages children, teenagers and adults of all abilities to play and develop in a supportive and inclusive environment and was the first known all abilities program in the region.
Ms Fletcher said the program was designed to offer long-term benefits to participants which would have a lasting impact.
“By providing a safe and supportive environment for people of all abilities, we aim to promote social inclusion, skill development, health and well-being, and the removal of barriers to participation,” she said.
“We are committed to ensuring that all players, regardless of ability, have access to football in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment.
“The all-abilities team is a key priority for us, and we make every effort to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to play. By offering this program free of charge, we aim to connect vulnerable community members with the broader community, providing opportunities for them to participate, build relationships, and feel included.”
The Mitchell Rangers Football Club All-Abilities program runs every Wednesday night from 5pm for the season.
Participants engage with the wider club members on training nights and at events and where possible subject to having enough players, travel to tournaments and games set up by Football Victoria with other all abilities teams to participate.
New players are welcomed and encouraged to email secretary@mitchellrangers.org.au to find out more.