MEDIA RELEASE
Football Futures Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of David Williams as Head Coach of the Western Australian Para Football State Team, with the endorsement and support of Football West.
David — current Perth Glory FC forward and former Socceroos player — is a highly regarded coach with extensive experience across high-performance football programs and will spearhead the WA Para Football State Team program. A strong advocate for inclusion and long-time supporter of the Foundation, David’s leadership will elevate the team’s pathway, ensuring Western Australian players with disability are provided the same opportunities to develop, compete, and shine at the highest level.
The WA Para Football State Team forms part of the Football West State Team program but is fully managed by Football Futures Foundation as Football West’s official inclusion partner. Working closely with the Foundation, David will lead the team into this year’s National Para Football Championships in Victoria.
Para Football is a modified version of football for players with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, symptoms of stroke and similar neuromuscular conditions. More than just competition, Para Football is a platform that creates visibility, breaks down barriers, and inspires the next generation. Opportunities like the National Championships not only provide a pathway to the CommBank Pararoos and Commbank ParaMatildas, but also highlight to aspiring players that there is a future in the game well beyond grassroots.
Football Futures Foundation also acknowledges the significant contribution of former head coach Peter Dawson, whose expertise and commitment have helped grow and strengthen the WA Para Football program to this point.
“This appointment represents the next step in levelling the playing field for players with disability. With David’s leadership, we are building not just a team, but a high-performance pathway that empowers athletes, inspires communities, and proves that football truly is a game for all.” – Michael Kerr, Football Futures Foundation CEO
“I am honoured to take on this role and to work alongside Football Futures Foundation and Football West. Para Football is about more than competition — it’s about breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and showing that every player, regardless of ability, deserves the chance to dream big and play at the highest level. I’m excited to help our athletes represent WA proudly at the National Championships.” – David Williams, WA Para Football State Team Head Coach
“Football West is proud to support Football Futures Foundation in the delivery of the WA Para Football State Team. David’s appointment reflects the strong commitment to inclusion across our sport, and we look forward to seeing the team thrive under his leadership at the upcoming National Championships.” Jamie Harnwell, Football West CEO
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Media Contact
Saskia Tjahja
Marketing & Communications Manager
0433 830 325 | saskiat@footballfutures.org.au