Active Opportunities was launched here on the Northern Beaches back in 2012 with the goal of providing accessible sport programs to all children with a disability.
Now 10 years on the program has grown to have approximately 50 kids attend their All-Abilities Football Program, an 8-week school term program held each term, on a Saturday morning at Cromer Park.
A long-term partner of Active Opportunities, Manly United are proud to continue to support the All-Abilities Football program which is for children 5-17 years of age with predominately intellectual special needs.
Run by John Tansley and his Active Opportunities team of volunteers at Cromer Park each term, Tanlsey says “It’s a great environment for the participants to build motor skills, football skills and more importantly social skills and is all done in a safe, fun, and inclusive environment.”
As the program continues to grow so does the opportunities for their players.
“We recently had the opportunity to send a team of senior representatives to compete against other Football4All groups, at the Football NSW Football4All gala day at Valentine Park last Sunday.” Tansley said.
“Our excited squad of 10 players, played 3 games, against teams from Nepean, Macarthur and Hills District.”
The squad managed to win all three games, however Tansley said this was not the highlight of what was a great day.
“Competing, sharing time with friends & family in a new environment, hot chips and a jumping castle made the day special.”
“I would also just like to say a big thank you to our volunteer team who support our Cromer Park program all year round, plus Active Opportunities and Manly United.
This is inclusion at its best.”
Active Opportunities will be back on at Cromer Park from 23rd July for their term 3 program. They are also currently seeking two additional senior volunteer coaches for term 3 to assist from 8:30am – 10am on Saturday mornings. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact John Tansley at jtansley@bigpond.net.au
Active Opportunities Term 3 Program
Who: Children aged 5-17 years with a disability
When: Every Saturday, 23rd July to 10th September
Where: Cromer Park
Time: 9am – 9:45pm
More Information: https://www.activeopportunities.org.au/northern-beaches
