Star Power at Youth Integrated Football

West Coast Eagles Co-Captain Oscar Allen has demonstrated his passion for community involvement by attending the inaugural Youth Integrated Football Competition in Perth’s northern suburbs.

The four-week competition is run by the All-Abilities Football Association, with Allen an Ambassador for the Youth Integrated Football Competition.

Allen, who grew up playing his junior footy in Whitfords, explained why he jumped at the chance to be an AFL Disability Inclusion Ambassador.

“A lot of these kids probably wouldn’t have had the opportunity to play footy in the past so it’s awesome,” Allen told “The West Australian” Newspaper.

“It’s what footy is about, being inclusive.

“They’ve all got the biggest smiles on their faces and having a great time.

“It’s pretty heartwarming to see.”

The event is designed for 13–17-year-olds and links the pathway from Starkick to the Integrated Competition.

The Quinns Bulls played the Coolbinia Bombers while the Joondalup Kinross Jets faced the Ellenbrook Dockers in the other match.

Tom Medhat, from WA All Abilities, believes the footy aspect of the program is only part of the story.

“For many participants, the competition is about being with their friends, having fun and enjoying a sense of belonging in the football community” he said.

“The kids are also loving the opportunity to showcase their skills at a junior football level!”