Wheelchair Auskick: Growing the Game, Growing Together

This season, Wheelchair Auskick reached a new milestone with 12 participants hitting the court.

For a program that only began a few years ago, it’s an exciting step forward - proof that the pathways being built for wheelchair footy are strong and growing.

The mix of new faces and returning players tells its own story. Some kids were experiencing the program for the first time, while others have now been part of Auskick for three seasons. That blend speaks to both the excitement of trying something new and the loyalty of those who simply don’t want to miss out.

Grace Nicholls from AFL Victoria shared,

“To have 12 participants in a Wheelchair Auskick program is a massive achievement and AFL Victoria are proud of the pathways we are creating for the sport. To have current players running the program is the best thing we can do to strengthen the competition and ensure that relationships are built and fostered.”

But the impact goes well beyond football.

Week after week, confidence grows, kids roll faster, take more shots, and find their voices on and off the court. Parents connect on the sidelines, coaches create bonds with families, and the whole program starts to feel like its own community.

As Grace explained,

“The connection I see from the kids, parents and now those running the program is second to none. I feel we have created our own little community when it comes to the Wheelchair Auskick program and I truly see this connection between families grow every year.”

That’s what makes Wheelchair Auskick so important. It’s a pathway for the sport, yes, but it’s also a place where kids belong, families connect, and the game of footy proves it has room for everyone.

At Freedom Sports Foundation, we’re incredibly proud to partner with AFL Victoria to deliver this program. Together, we’re building skills, confidence, and community. We can’t wait to come back even stronger next season.

Hit play on the video below to see our Wheelchair Auskick program in action and hear from our participants and coaches! 👇🏼