00:00Backyard practice, training for the real deal.
00:06It gives a lot of these guys a chance to play some footy that they wouldn't have a chance to do otherwise and it's a lot of fun for them.
00:13This All Abilities Rugby League program is growing each year.
00:1860 players are registered for Sunday games in Bundaberg and Gin Gin.
00:24It's been a game changer for the Hirsond family who have four children with disabilities.
00:31I was really excited. As soon as my mum told me that, I was jumping with joy.
00:36I have friends in there. It gets me out more. It gets out of my shell. It makes me happy to play with my friends.
00:45The program also has a social benefit.
00:49It's very hard for them to make friends and seeing them all in this community, as a village, all having fun together, it just melts your heart.
01:00For players like Darcy Else, it's helping build confidence on and off the field.
01:07First year was a bit tough for him, but since then he's just thrived and he's loving every minute of being out there playing with his teammates, scoring tries.
01:15Four years later, his love for the game is only growing.
01:20I like seeing my friends, seeing my friends and doing lots of practice.
01:25The program is continuing to grow in popularity, prompting organisers to extend the season from six weeks to eight.
01:33It's a supportive environment and you know that your child's going to be cared for and well looked after and that's a safe place for everyone then.
01:45Thanks for joining us.
Comments