Unified Football continues to grow from strength to strength in Papua New Guinea in transforming lives through sports.
Level 2 Unified Football Coach for Special Olympics PNG, Willie Vaira, said the 7-a-side competition that started two weeks ago has seen an increase in 14 teams this season.
“The interest has built up from last year starting with just six teams playing 5-a-side football.
“We now have teams from Chesire Homes, Red Cross, Hanuabada Day Care, Wardstrip and Sogeri Primary turning up at the Sir John Guise Stadium every Saturday to play.
“Unified Football is all about bringing people with intellectual disabilities and able people together in sports.
“We shouldn’t judge these children by their disabilities but by their abilities. Many are not recognised in their communities, which makes them vulnerable. Sports is one way to change the mindsets of everyone,” said Vaira.
Vaira added the competition will end on October 7 with the finals.
“PNG won gold after finishing undefeated at the Brisbane State Games in May this year. We now have our sights set on the Australian Championships with the aim to qualify for the 2019 Special Olympics in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.”