Nathan's 50th Game: Join an All Abilities Footy Team

An action montage of Nathan in his Swan all abilities team guernsey on the footy oval

Written by Patricia Griffioen on 3 Sep, 2026 in Real Life Stories

This season brought an extra milestone for one of our clients. Nathan played his 50th game for the Swan all abilities team, and his side went on to reach their first finals. His message for anyone thinking about getting involved is a simple one: have a go.

From playing for fun to lifting up the team

Nathan plays for the Swan all abilities team and chalked up his 50th game this season. He has been with the team for three years now, but has been playing footy since 2013.

He started playing for the fun of it, but these days he takes just as much joy from helping everyone in his team shine. The team is made up of people with varying disabilities, each with their own strengths, challenges and goals. Whether it is kicking two goals or simply getting a touch of the ball, Nathan loves helping his teammates get there. Seeing the smiles on their faces when they do something challenging is what brings him back every time.

A team player, wherever he is needed

While some players stick to a set position, Nathan plays wherever he is needed, whether that is midfield or in the backline. He is happy to fill any role as long as it helps the team.

The team trains twice a week, and on Thursdays they share a meal together afterwards, which gives everyone the chance to meet other people at the club.

Overcoming a roadblock

Nathan is most proud of when he first started playing with the Swan Districts. Getting into the team was a real challenge, and he had to overcome a roadblock and grow as a person to get there.

A big finals run

Nathan’s team finished the year as minor premiers and went on to play in their first finals, with teams from suburbs all around Perth taking part. It capped off a remarkable turnaround. Last year the team finished on the bottom, and after moving up to a new division they became one of the top sides.

His message: have a go

Nathan encourages everyone to give all abilities footy a go.

If they want to have a game and a run, join up and look up an all abilities team that suits you. Have a go. You’ll be sure to make new friends.

Want to build community participation like Nathan’s into your NDIS plan? Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help.

About the author

Patricia Griffioen

Marketing Communications Lead

Patricia is a passionate advocate for innovative and person-centred support solutions, and community involvement more generally. As a contributing author to My Supports, her articles explore a range of disability supports, providing useful information and inspiring stories for those seeking detail and greater control over their living arrangements.