Sport4All and APM Communities Launch First Dedicated Inclusion Coach Role in the Great Southern, WA
Sport4All, in collaboration with APM Communities, has announced the launch of a dedicated Access and Inclusion Coach role in Western Australia’s Great Southern region. It’s the first role of its kind in the area, and a major step forward for inclusive sport.
Roger D’Souza has been appointed to the position, which will serve the communities of Albany, Denmark and Mount Barker. Roger will work directly with clubs, schools and councils to support grassroots inclusion – ensuring people with disability have more opportunities to get involved in local sport.
“Sport is at the heart of regional communities – it brings people together, creates connection and shapes our sense of belonging,” said Carina McMillen, WA State Manager at Sport4All. “That’s why I’m so proud to see the Sport4All program expanding into the Great Southern. With the right support, inclusion becomes part of the culture – and that’s where real change happens.”
The announcement comes ahead of the Sport4All Great Southern Launch, taking place on Wednesday 30 July at 7.30am at the Retravision Stadium and Function Centre. The event will bring together sporting leaders, local government, and community groups to mark the beginning of Roger’s work in the region.
More than 70 sporting clubs are spread across the Great Southern’s three main local government areas, but until now, no dedicated inclusion support has been available. Roger’s appointment builds on the existing work of APM Communities, which has long championed inclusion in community sport.
“We’re excited to be working with Sport4All to support the introduction of a dedicated Inclusion Coach into the Great Southern,” said Alex Rutter, National Manager – Community & Partnerships at APM Communities. “By helping make grassroots sport more inclusive of people with disability, we’re also strengthening club cultures and ensuring that everyone is given a fair chance to participate, contribute and thrive.”
Sport4All is a national program delivered by Get Skilled Access – the organisation founded by Paralympian and former Australian of the Year Dylan Alcott AO. The program is funded by the Australian Government in partnership with the Australian Sports Commission. At its core are local Inclusion Coaches, many with lived experience of disability, who work alongside councils, schools and clubs to embed inclusive culture through education and support.
Get Involved
Local clubs and schools interested in learning more about inclusive sport can contact Inclusion Coach Roger D’Souza directly at roger.dsouza@sport4all.com.au
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