Above: Hampton Park’s Scott Ramanui will represent Australia at the INAS — FID World Football Cup in Germany.
By Rebecca Fraser
A LAST-minute donation has put a team of disabled soccer players on side for a trip to Germany.
Three local players are packing their bags after being given the chance to represent their country at the INAS – FID World Football Cup in September.
The news has delighted Endeavour Hills soccer enthusiast and Australian soccer team for players with an intellectual disability coach Carlos Loyola, who has desperately been trying to raise the $125,000 needed to transport the team.
Up until last week it appeared doubtful that the team of 15 players and three officials would raise enough money, with many players pulling out because they could simply not afford to go.
Westfield Fountain Gate has now thrown the three local players – two from Hampton Park and one from Narre Warren – a lifeline and donated $9000 for the trip.
The team still needs to raise another $12,000 before departing Australian shores, but Mr Loyola said the team would definitely be going.
Two other players from Pakenham have also set their sights on Germany, and Holt MP Anthony Byrne said he would continue to campaign for the outstanding money so the full team could travel.
Mr Loyola said players from the Doveton Special Soccer School, where he also coaches, could not wait to pull on the green and gold and represent Australia.
He said the team and the Australian Sport and Recreation Association for Persons with an Intellectually Disability (AUS-RAPID) was extremely grateful for Westfield’s donation and Mr Byrne’s ongoing support.
Mr Loyola urged other local businesses to come out and help the team get across the line.
“These guys are so committed,” he said.
“They have had difficulties in their lives and to receive this money and support to help fulfil the dream of a group of players who have worked hard to represent their country is fantastic.”
Mr Loyola said some families had cried when they heard the good news and it had been an emotional moment for many of the players.
Westfield Fountain Gate centre manager Fiona Mackenzie said the company was pleased it could help the young players achieve their goals.
“This is a great cause and something really positive to be involved with,” she said.
Holt MP Anthony Byrne said he was delighted the team was finally going.
“It’s great news that (players) Trent, Simon and Scott will now go to Germany and represent Australia at the INAS-FID World Championships for people with an intellectual disability.
“It’s part of my role to assist our local community groups in their battle to get the resources they need.
“In this case I was able to obtain the necessary support from a sympathetic business, Westfield, and these young soccer players will have the opportunity to show their skills on the world stage. I know they will do us proud.”
Anyone wanting to donate to the Australia team’s trip can contact Star News Group on 5945 0666.
