Request for Support for Joel Blanchfield-Keane: Australian U

I am writing to share an exciting opportunity regarding Joel Blanchfield-Keane, a talented and dedicated young goalkeeper who has been selected to represent the Australian U23 Deaf Football Team. Joel has been a player at East Gosford for the last three seasons and was part of the Central Coast Mariners U14s JRZL Representative Team and Foundation Football program.

Born prematurely at 31 weeks, Joel was diagnosed with auditory neuropathy. Joel began wearing hearing aids at just 16 weeks old. Consistent use of his hearing aids, sharp lip-reading, and early hearing support helped him adapt seamlessly in a hearing world.

Joel has worked hard to earn a place on this prestigious team and will soon be attending a training camp at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra. Following the camp, he will also have the honour of representing Australia at the Deaf Olympics in Japan in November 2025, followed by at the 2026 Deaf Football World Cup in March.

This is a significant achievement for Joel, and his journey toward competing the Deaf Olympics and at the World Cup is an exciting and proud moment for both the player and the Australian Deaf Football community. However, there are various costs associated with the training camp, travel, and participation in the World Cup, which can be financially burdensome.

We are reaching out to ask for your support in helping Joel pursue this incredible opportunity. Any assistance, whether through financial contribution, sponsorship, or other forms of support, would be immensely appreciated and would directly contribute to Joel’s development and success as they represent Australia on the world stage.

Funds will be used to pay for air fares, accommodation, equipment and any expenses getting Joel to the Deaf Olympics and the World Cup.