2022 APM SANFL Inclusive League continues to grow

By ZAC MILBANK

The APM SANFL Inclusive League is set to embrace its expansion ahead of the 2022 season beginning on Saturday.

Now entering its fourth season under SANFL, the League will welcome two new clubs – Kilburn and Tea Tree Gully – making it a seven-team competition.

More than 150 male players, aged 15 and above with an intellectual disability, will don the boots this year for 14 rounds plus finals, the longest season since the competition started in 1992.

”It’s exciting to see the competition grow as each year we have new players giving footy a go,” SANFL Disability Programs Coordinator Nathan Pepper said.

”Seeing players develop and improve skills both on and off the field, as well as the way the footy clubs embrace them, is really special.

”The league offers regular, competitive football to inclusive teams in a safe, fun and friendly environment. The focus is on the development of players and their social inclusion at community football clubs.”

Group CEO Mike Anghie said APM was proud to continue its support for the SANFL Inclusive League.

“APM is a foundation supporter of the Inclusive League and we look forward to continue supporting this great initiative to give more people with disability a chance to get involved in sport to increase their fitness and social participation,” he said.

”Sport, and football in particular, is an important foundation of Australian society and brings all types of people together.”

Mr Anghie said people with disability are often excluded from community and social activities, and APM was pleased to continue supporting the league so everyone can have fun while establishing new friendships and connections.

Matches will be played on Saturdays throughout the season, with the finals series scheduled for late August.