Football Futures Foundation and Football West are proud to announce Western Australia’s para football talent will be showcased on the global stage as four of the state’s top players have been selected to represent Australia at the 2024 IFCPF World Cup in Salou, Spain.

Alessandro LaVerghetta, Giacomo Izzo, and Rafferty Bacon have earned their place in the CommBank Pararoos squad, marking an incredible achievement for these young athletes. For Giacomo and Rafferty, this will be their first time competing in a major international tournament.

In addition to the remarkable achievements of WA’s Pararoos players, award-winning goalkeeper Katelyn Smith has officially been selected in the CommBank ParaMatildas squad to compete in the 2024 IFCPF World Cup. Her selection highlights her unwavering dedication and exceptional talent, as she prepares to represent Australia once again on the world stage.

The IFCPF (International Federation of Cerebral Palsy Football) World Cup is the pinnacle of international para football, featuring the world’s best players living with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, symptoms of stroke or similar neuromuscular conditions. The tournament provides a global platform for these athletes to demonstrate their exceptional skills and resilience, competing against top nations as they vie for the title of world champions.

This milestone is especially significant for the three Western Australian players, who have developed their talents through the WA Para Football Program, delivered by Football Futures Foundation and as part of the Gold Fields WA Para Football State Team supported by Football West. The program has been instrumental in fostering the growth of para football in WA, providing athletes with the opportunity to train, compete, and thrive in an inclusive and supportive environment. The program’s success is reflected in the achievements of these players, whose selection to the CommBank Pararoos and CommBank Paramatildas squads highlight Western Australia’s strong development pathways in para football.

Michael Kerr, Executive Officer of Football Futures Foundation, said, “We are incredibly proud of Alessandro, Giacomo, and Rafferty for their selection to the CommBank Pararoos squad and for Katelyn’s selection to the CommBank ParaMatildas squad. Their hard work, determination, and passion for the game have been truly inspiring, and this is a well-deserved reward for their efforts. This achievement is a testament to the impact of the WA Para Football Program, and we are excited to see these players represent Australia on the world stage.”

The announcement also comes with a heartfelt acknowledgment of Gold Fields WA Para Football State Team Head Coach Fadi Ma’ayah, who is stepping down from his role after over seven years of dedicated service. Ma’ayah has played a pivotal role in shaping the program and nurturing the development of para football in Western Australia, with many of his players going on to achieve national and international success.

“Fadi has been an incredible leader and mentor to our players, and his commitment to para football has left a lasting legacy,” Football West Chief Operating Officer Perry Ielati said. “We thank him for his outstanding contribution to the WA Para Football Program and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”

The search for a new head coach will commence shortly and interested applicants are encouraged to contact Football Futures Foundation at hello@footballfutures.org.au to apply for the role. Football West and Football Futures Foundation also extends its gratitude to the supporting coaching team, including Assistant Coach Peter Dawson, Team Manager Didier Wong, and Physiotherapist Rebecca Brest, who have all brought their expertise and passion to the team this year.

Football West and Football Futures Foundation wish the WA athletes and the entire CommBank Pararoos squad the very best of luck as they compete at the IFCPF World Cup, taking place from 2-10 November in Salou, Spain. For more information, visit: www.footballaustralia.com.au/news

Support the CommBank Pararoos and ParaMatildas by joining in The Undefeated Challenge – a fundraising initiative to help generate crucial financial support and raise awareness about para football. Learn more: www.footballaustralia.com.au/news/join-undefeated-challenge-support-australias-cp-football-stars