Football Federation Australia (FFA) last week announced that the Pararoos will play their first match on Australian soil in 19 years later this month.
The Pararoos are Australia’s senior men’s national football team for athletes with Cerebral Palsy, acquired brain injury or symptoms acquired from stroke, and haven’t hosted a match in Australia since the 2000 Paralympic Games.
But that will change on Saturday 30th November, when the Pararoos play Canada in an international friendly at Cromer Park in Sydney.
The match was made possible thanks to support received from the FIFA Forward 2.0 Football Development Programme, which helps fund and support initiatives pursued by its Member Associations and FIFA’s six Confederations.
Pararoos Head Coach Kai Lammert says the confirmation of a home fixture represents a great opportunity for his team.
“Our players are absolutely thrilled with the news that they will have the chance to represent Australia, in Australia, this month,” Lammert said.
“Aside from two players – Chris Pyne and David Barber – none of our current squad members have had the opportunity to play in front of their family and friends on home soil before, so this truly is a fantastic opportunity for our boys.”
FFA Chief Executive Officer Mr David Gallop AM acknowledged both FIFA and Manly Warringah Football Asssociation (MWFA), who are hosting the international friendly at Cromer Park, for their support of the match.
“FIFA and MWFA have worked collaboratively with FFA on this initiative and we acknowledge their support in backing the Pararoos and the development of CP football in Australia,” Mr. Gallop said.
“Thanks to the support and efforts of many, 100 per cent of ticket sales from the match will be invested into the Pararoos, helping to ensure there are continued opportunities for the squad.
“We’re sure a great crowd will turn out for this match which will feature the 10th ranked team in the world, Australia, up against Canada, who are 11th.”
Pararoos captain David Barber, who is likely to make his 100th appearance for the Pararoos against Canada, described the fixture as a dream come true.
“It has been so long since we played on home soil, it is going to mean the world,” Barber said.
“If you are a fan of football, a fan of good football, then that is what this team is all about. Just because we have a disability doesn’t change the fact that we play amazing football.”
Kick-off will be at 5:30pm (AEDT), with tickets on sale NOW via the official Pararoos website – www.pararoos.com.au.
Pararoos v Canada
Date: Saturday, 30th November 2019
Venue: Cromer Park (South Creek Road, Cromer, NSW)
Kick-off: 5.30pm AEDT