Imagine a perfectly executed mark, but the players couldn’t see the ball.
That’s the thrilling nature of Blind AFL, the much-loved accessible version of Australian Aussie Rules football.
Now with a brand new custom-designed Sherrin audible ball, the game is maturing.
This week on Vision Australia Radio’s Talking Vision, host and football fanatic Sam Colley speaks to two St Kilda Football Club Blind AFL players, Shannon Jones and Ingrid McKenna.
The teams play in a purpose-built indoor sports complex in Melbourne’s north west which has synthetic grass, and nets to make sure the ball stays in the pitch.
“I just love that people can have a go,” Shannon said.
“It’s a really good atmosphere, the comradery; everyone is there to support each other.”
At just 21, Ingrid has put her hand up for numerous blind sports including goalball and blind cricket, but AFL holds a soft spot for her.
“It's a really good environment to be around, especially to see the impact it has on people's lives,” she said.
“There were people that walked in there on the first day who couldn't kick and football or handball, but to see them get involved… their skills have grown so much on the field.”
The Blind AFL season is about to start and the Victorian league is hosting two come and try days in April to invite anyone interested in playing the sport.
The league caters for all experience levels, from beginners to experienced players.
LIsten to the full interview in the player below:
Blind AFL - Come and Try days
Dates: Saturday 2 April and Saturday 9 April.
Time: 11am – 1pm (both dates)
Location: Action Indoor Sports Centre, 2/ 10-12 Carrick Drive, Tullamarine, VIC 3043
For more information on Blind AFL, visit the official site.
Talking Vision is a weekly discussion of issues relating to blindness and low vision.
It includes stories of inspiration and achievement and information on services for the community.
Tell us your story by emailing [email protected]