The Football4All Gala Day returns for 2026 in just over a week, aiming to continue fostering relationships, opportunity and accessibility to every player across the state.
Taking place at Valentine Sport Park on Sunday, the 21st of June, the Football NSW initiative has been running since 2009 and has provided meaningful opportunities for participants to engage with football in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.
The annual Gala Day, running from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, brings these values to life, creating a vibrant atmosphere both on and off the field where inclusion, respect, and connection are at the forefront.
“Football has an incredible ability to break down barriers and create spaces where everyone feels they belong,” Football NSW Inclusion, Diversity and Club Development Coordinator Ellie Kerr said to FNSW media.
“The Football4All Gala Day is about participation, shared experiences, and celebrating the role football can play in strengthening individuals and communities.”
Hills Football member clubs and Football4All programs will be present and participating on the day, uniting for the greater good of the community and the game.
“We currently have five Football4All programs running at Castle Hill United, Hills Knights, Kellyville Kolts, Rouse Hill Rams, and Winston Hills, as well as Hills United with their Powerchair Team”, Hills Football Competitions and Operations Coordinator Paul Carollo said
“While all of these programs share the common goal of making football more inclusive and accessible, each one is unique in the participants it serves and the way it delivers that experience.”
Talking to Hills Football Media, Jenny Crandell, the All-Abilities Coordinator at the Castle Hill United Football Club, described how they operate their program at Fred Caterson Reserve and the ongoing success for their members.
“Every Saturday morning, players come together to learn football skills, play games and celebrate achievements under the guidance of dedicated coaches and volunteers,” Crandell said.
“The program focuses on participation, enjoyment, and personal development rather than competition.”
“It provides an ideal introduction to football for those trying the sport for the first time, while also offering a social and supportive environment for players who prefer a less competitive pathway.”
On the day, all event goers receive free entry, a ton of exciting and inclusive football matches to watch and the possibility of a special exhibition match involving the ParaMatildas, plus so much more.
For more information about the gala day or how you can get involved with the Football4All program, head to https://hillsfootball.com.au/competitions/allabilities/ or https://footballnsw.com.au/player-hub/inclusion-football/football4all/
