PREMIUM
Sport

Benalla community urged to support all-ability soccer team

The Regional All Abilities Rebellion Football Team is seeking funding to secure its future. Photo by Contributed

A north-eastern Victorian all-ability soccer team is desperate for the Benalla community’s donations to help it to continue to thrive.

Founded in 2023 under the Wangaratta City Football Club banner before splitting off shortly after, the presence of the Regional All Abilities Rebellion Football Team has allowed dozens of aspiring footballers to represent the city of roses with pride in the game.

To club coach Michael Virgona, the club symbolises all that is good in grassroots sport.

The Regional All Abilities Rebellion Football Team competes in the All Abilities Metro Competition in Melbourne. Photo by Contributed

“It’s a great team with amazing people who are talented and full of life, to play with them fills me with such joy,” Virgona said.

The 16-member club currently competes in the All Abilities Metro Competition, which sees the team make the 218km trip to Melbourne to take on Victoria’s best.

“All abilities refers to people with mental disabilities, including myself, and Rebellion is a club for people like us and run by people like us,” Virgona said.

Michael Virgona and James Elkhan. Photo by Contributed

The costs for these trips add up, and continuous funding is required for the club to continue providing the programs it offers.

“We need as many donations as possible; we have been struggling all year due to a lack of funds,” Virgona said.

The Regional All Abilities Rebellion Football Team needs donations. Photo by Contributed

The club has started a fundraiser on the Australian Sports Foundation platform and has $272 in donations as of Wednesday, October 2.

Any donations will ensure the good times continue to roll on at Bindall Ave Reserve, home of the mighty Rebellion.

Those wishing to donate can do so here, Helping and supporting Regional All Abilities Rebellion soccer team | Australian Sports Foundation (asf.org.au)