The Brisbane Paralympic Program (BPFP) is hosted at the Mitchelton Football Club and is in its 17th year of providing a place for people of all abilities to be involved in soccer and sporting activities.
Allowing Brisbane families of all abilities to experience football
The Director – Jay, pioneered the program for his own son. His son’s challenge of Cerebral Palsy made it difficult for him to be included in mainstream sporting programs so Jay decided to be the change he wanted to see – which brought about the beginning of the BPFP.
The Brisbane Paralympic Football Program has grown from strength to strength, and sees loads of people participating every week. After all of their hard work to build the program, they are really excited to see so many people engaged for fun, fitness, friendship and team spirit.
Run by volunteers
The Brisbane Paralympic Football Program is supported by a team of dedicated volunteers who have professional experience of working with people with disabilities. The program is endorsed by Football Queensland.
State and National Paralympic Representatives
The Brisbane Paralympic Football Program has several players in the current state and national Paralympic football teams. However, the BPFP is not just about advanced athletes. The program is fun and encourages family participation (so even siblings can join in!). The aim of the BPFP is to get all people to stay active and healthy, and to perform to the best of their ability. People that come to the BPFP feel a sense of belonging and form lasting friendships with other participants as well as the volunteers.
Testimonials
“What I love about the BPFP is that it feels like family” – Participant
“The experience we as a family are having and have had since enrolling our son in this absolutely awesome program is one that I have not enough words to explain. Our son has grown beyond our belief within the first 6 months, his confidence level, his self worth and passion to succeed in his dreams now seem so much more realistic and actually achievable to him, his love for soccer is incredible. The assistance from Jay and his team is like nothing I have ever witnessed for all families involved directly or indirectly. From the bottom of my heart I can not thank Jay and his team enough for helping us see our young man believe in himself and have the courage, confidence and commitment to chase his dreams.” – Parent
“BPFP is a great community of vibrant, enthusiastic and genuine people! Its such a fun time and an honour to have the opportunity to get involved! Jay is making a difference in so many people’s lives. It’s touching and inspiring” – Student
Locations
The Brisbane Paralympic Football Program is supported by Football Queensland. The BPFP meets regularly at 2:00pm on Sundays during school terms, at Mitchelton FC, Teralba Park, Osbourne Road, Mitchelton.
For more information, please visit the Brisbane Paralympic Football Program website, or visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pg/BPFP1. You can also contact Jay Larkins / jay@bpfp.com.au / 0411 134 531.
