A special Family Fun Day packed with great features is to be held on Sunday 30 April at the Livingstone Reserve in Cranbourne East – the home of the Cranbourne Eagles.
The Cranbourne Eagles house some amazing football players who have intellectual disabilities.
The All-Abilities team offers those living with a disability the space to get involved in local football and grow their sporting skills.
Senior All-Abilities Eagle Mel McGowan said the team has had a massive impact on her mental health.
“Football has helped me with mental health,” she said.
“It’s something to look forward to, something to do.”
Mel said the commitment aspect of engaging with a sports team also helps to keep her going.
“I would feel like I’d let the team down if I didn’t show up,” she said.
“Football, or any sport, is important for socialisation.
“Just getting out and about, making new friends, meeting new people.”
Mel is one of three female players on the Cranbourne Eagles team.
She is the only female on the Senior team, but she said she has no qualms with the experience.
“I’m just one of the boys,” she said.
The Family Fun Day is being supported by The Disability Company, spearheaded by Dylan Maliepaard, who formed the organisation to provide more genuine care for people living with a disability and their families.
“Part of what this day is all about is raising awareness about the All-Abilities Team we have at the Cranbourne Eagles Football Club,” Mr Maliepaard said.
“They are a real inspiration and are just so amazing.
“The Disability Company is proud to support this important event.”
Since 2018, The Disability Company has provided over 140,000 hours of quality care to the South East Melbourne community and beyond.
It is now supporting people with a disability in the East, West and North of Melbourne plus the Gippsland and Bass Coast community.
The Disability Company has become known for supporting people with a disability – especially mental health related, psychosocial, intellectual and dual disabilities.
Mr Maliepaard said the Family Fun Day will focus on breaking down barriers for people who face many challenges on a daily basis.
“Come down and enjoy the local footy,” Mr Maliepaard said.
“There is free DJ entertainment and a car show and we will have a jumping castle, face painting,
henna body art and a sausage sizzle.
“It is going to be a great day.”
The Fun Day will run from 10.30am to 2pm.
