Western Australia Is Making History — Be Part of It

This fundraiser is organized by Football Futures Foundation Limited.

Help Western Australia’s Intellectual Disability Team Make History

For the first time ever, an Australian team of players with intellectual disabilities will compete at the Genuine World Cup 2025 in Houston, Texas - Football Futures Foundation’s Western Australia Intellectual Disability (WAID) team will stand proudly alongside international football giants like FC Barcelona Foundation, Manchester United, Valencia CF, and Inter Miami, as well as national teams from Mexico, India, and more.

Until now, there’s been no state-level competitive pathway for footballers with intellectual disabilities in WA. But through Football Futures Foundation, these players are breaking new ground.

For many players, this will be their first flight, their first international tournament, and the first time they’re being celebrated as elite athletes.

We’re raising $30,000 to ensure every player, carer, and support staff member can attend, and to support our participation in Genuine Connect at Rice University, a global forum dedicated to advancing inclusion in sport, education, and employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Meet the Team:

Sam: “I’m the team’s goalie. I’ve trained hard for this and made great friends.”
Emily: “As someone with autism, football gave me confidence and purpose. Now I’m proud to show the world that no barrier can stop us.”
Chris: “I can’t wait to score goals, play against awesome teams and represent Australia!”
Brendon: “Football has changed my life and continually push myself to improve. Now I get to represent my country doing what I love most.”
Brendan Jones: “This is my first time travelling overseas. I’m excited to have fun and win!”
Jason: “I want to help my team by creating goals and playing my best.”
Oscar Cuffe-Cain: “I’m 19 and I love cars, the gym, and football. Playing for WA means hanging with my mates and staying fit.”
Liam Felstead: “I love having fun with my team. I can’t wait to play in America!!”
Matthew Brandish: “I love playing football and making friends. I’m excited to travel, play, and have fun.”
Lochlan Fennell: “I can’t wait to give my best on the field in another country”
Luka Oroz: “I’m so happy I’m going to America to play with my team and meet new friends.”
Jason Mitchell: “I want to create chances and support the team.”
Nicholas Fuller: “I can’t wait to play against teams from around the world.”
Ewan Pentland: “We’re training hard and aiming to play our best.”
Pat Amato: “Football is more than a sport. It’s about inclusion, growth, and overcoming challenges. It’s given me fulfilment.”

We’re not just chasing goals on the pitch. We’re fighting for equity, recognition, and representation.

These players have overcome so much, now they need your help to cross the final line. Your donation says: You belong. You matter. You’re going to the World Cup.

Help us make history. Donate today.

When you donate, send a personal message to the player you're supporting. Let them know you believe in them. Let them feel the love from home.