The Willetton Football Club’s Integrated All Abilities team has become an example of inclusion, perseverance, and community spirit.
Since its early beginnings, when it was kick-started by local business owner, Georgie Steacey, in 2017, the team has grown into a strong and proud part of the club, giving players living with disability the chance to get involved, build skills, and enjoy the game.
Among them is Kevin Phillips Junior, who joined the team after surviving a serious accident that left him with permanent brain injuries.
Today, he is a key part of the side, running out with his teammates and showing just how powerful sport can be in bringing people together.
“Playing with all my teammates and meeting new players is definitely what I love most about playing footy,” Kevin said.
“Running out on the field with all my mates and being supported by spectators on the sidelines is a great feeling and gives me a huge sense of love, acceptance and community.”
Coach Kevin Phillips Senior, Kevin’s father, has witnessed the team’s incredible growth over the past six years.
“I have seen a remarkably impressive amount of growth in the Willetton team over the past six years of us playing together,” he said.
“During this time, we have made the Grand Final five years in a row, winning it in 2021 and again in 2024.”
He added that having the right equipment, made possible through community support, had a big impact.
“Having the correct equipment definitely makes a huge difference in the growth and development of any team, and this is certainly the case for ours,” he said.
“Adding to this, GR8 Disability Housing offering to cover the cost of our team’s awards night is a tremendous help because many people with disabilities either earn a minimal wage or rely on government support.”
Local business GR8 Disability Housing has been a major supporter of the team, helping with new footballs, upgraded gear, and funding opportunities that allow every player to feel fully part of the club.
“GR8 Disability Housing has been a massive support for our Integrated team,” Kevin Junior said.
“Having the support of businesses like this allows people with disabilities the opportunity to be involved and feel a sense of community which means so much and may not otherwise be possible.”
GR8 Disability Housing Managing Director Perry Kleppe said the decision to get behind the team came naturally, given the club’s long-standing commitment to fostering inclusivity.
“We wanted to ensure the club’s All Abilities team had access to the equipment and support they needed to continue playing,” he said.
“The whole team at GR8 loves following along with the season and seeing the pride the players show wearing the WFC jumper.”
Kleppe hopes other businesses consider sponsoring All Abilities programs too.
“It’s extremely rewarding seeing the team on the field enjoying the game,” he said. “As a former president of a local community club, I understand how challenging finances can be; every dollar counts.”
This year will mark a new milestone for the team, with every member invited to attend the club’s prestigious Gibb Medal Awards Night, with tickets purchased by GR8 Disability Housing.
“It’s extremely rewarding seeing them on the field enjoying the game,” Kleppe said.
“Seeing them at the awards night this year will be a really special moment for all of us.”
At Willetton Football Club, creating opportunities for people of all abilities to participate fully in community sport has become a core part of its identity, showing that footy truly is a game for everyone.
With two premiership titles under their belt and a strong season ahead, the Willetton Blues Integrated All Abilities team is proving that with the right support, anything is possible.
New players and volunteers are always welcome, with training sessions held each week at Burrendah Park.
