Blues into the Grand Final

Blues into the Grand Final

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Two footy players hugging on the field.
The Willetton Blues Integrated side are thrilled to be in the grand final. Photograph - Richard Polden.

The Willetton Blues Integrated team have secured a spot in the grand final after an impressive 52-point victory over High Wycombe last Saturday at Burrendah Reserve.

The All Abilities side got off to a strong start, leading the Bulldogs by 26 points at quarter-time and further extending their lead to 50 points by three-quarter time.

Blues coach Kevin Phillips, and son of one of the players, is incredibly proud of all his players and is thrilled to see them grow both as footballers and as individuals.

“Watching the players progress is very rewarding,” Mr Phillips said.
“I’ve got 24 players, all integrated with different disabilities, and they all love it.”

Mr Phillips, who has voluntarily coached the team for the past four years alongside assistant Brian Upson, believes there’s room for the competition to grow and encourages other teams to start their own All Ability side.

“There’s probably enough demand now for more clubs or even some clubs to have second teams.”

All Abilities football in WA, which began as Integrated Football in 2008/09, has developed into a competitive league that promotes well-being, independence and life skills for players with disabilities and all abilities.

The Willetton Blues will play off in the grand final at Coolbinia Oval, on Saturday, August 24 at 4pm, against either the Coolbinia Falcons or the High Wycombe Bulldogs.