AFL Blind
All Abilities Football
Experience the thrill of Inclusive Football
What is AFL Blind?
AFL Blind is an adapted version of Australian Rules Football specifically designed to enable individuals with blindness and low vision to participate in the excitement and competitive spirit of the game. This inclusive version of AFL is a testament to the sport’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement and the leagues are currently available in Victoria and Western Australia.
AFL ABLE WITH MAPLE
What makes AFL Blind unique?
- A Buzzing Ball: The game is played with a ball that emits a continuous buzzing noise, allowing players to locate it by sound.
- Classification: Players are classified based on their vision and AFL skill level, ensuring a fair playing field where goals are worth different points depending on the player’s classification.
- Playing Fields: Games are played indoors which helps players use their hearing to track the ball and navigate the field. To assist players’ accuracy when kicking for goal there are flickering lights behind the goal posts and the umpires use hand-held shakers.
- Teamwork and Communication: increased communication and directional cues from players and coaches help everyone navigate the field effectively, enhancing teamwork and camaraderie.
- Auditory Cues: The buzzing ball and rattling goal signals create an auditory-rich environment, making it easier for players with vision impairments to stay engaged and competitive.
- Inclusion and Participation: The game is structured to ensure that everyone, regardless of their level of vision, can participate fully and enjoy the sport.
Maple Community Services Role
Maple Community Services is proud to partner with the AFL to bring AFL Blind to more Australians. Our goal is to make sports accessible to everyone and ensure that all individuals, regardless of ability, can participate and thrive in the game they love.
- Providing Support: Maple is committed to supporting AFL Blind by providing the necessary expertise, training, and equipment to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all players.
- Community Engagement: We are dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive community around AFL Blind, encouraging participation and engagement from individuals of all abilities.
How to get involved?
If you are interested in being part of the AFL Wheelchair community, whether as a player, coach, volunteer, or supporter, click here to visit AFL Play for more information about how to get involved in a local league.
LEARN MORE AND STAY CONNECTED
Interested in learning more about Maple’s commitment AFL Blind? Fill out the form below to stay connected and be a part of this incredible journey towards inclusivity in Australian sports.
AFL with Maple. Play Your Way.