Ottomin Foundation Committee members were invited by the Pararoos to attend the exclusive premiere of their documentary film, ‘The Pararoos’. This momentous event provided supporters with the opportunity to assist the Pararoos and learn what it means to be a part of the team, as they embark upon their road to the 2019 World Cup.
The Pararoos are Australia’s only national football team for athletes with cerebral palsy or other brain-related health conditions. After the Australian Sports Commission withdrew all government funding related to the Pararoos in 2015, Football Federation Australia partnered with the Australian Sports Foundation to establish a tax-deductible fund, enabling the community to support the Pararoos’ footballing dreams.
Ben Atkins, squad member of the Pararoos said, “The Pararoos really gave me an identity, gave me purpose, gave me that drive to achieve more than I thought I could. Having cerebral palsy is the best thing that has happened to me. It allowed me to reassess what my life goals were and honestly, without the Pararoos I don’t know where I’d be.”
Richard Kovacs, Chairman of the Ottomin Foundation said, “The Pararoos inspire thousands of everyday Australians who struggle with the challenges of disability. The team gives each player the opportunity to not only represent their country but essentially change their lives, whilst leaving a legacy and guiding the next generation of disabled footballers rising through the ranks.”
