By Xavier Smerdon
KICKING a football around the park is proving to be more than just a healthy pastime in Wyndham and Hobsons Bay with the return of the Wynbay Power.
Wynbay Power is a football team for men and women experiencing homelessness, drug and alcohol issues, disability, mental health issues and social and economic isolation.
The team’s coach, Leading Senior Constable Scott Sutton, said the initiative was all about getting people who might be feeling isolated mixing with people and feeling like part of a team.
“Participation in sport is one way to connect them with the community,” Leading Sen Const Sutton said.
Leading Sen Const Sutton said some of the players had difficulty working with a police officer at first, but it did not take them long to realise that he was just another person.
“Once they get to know me as the coach they realise that we’re there to help them,” he said,
But it is not just the players that benefit from being a part of Wynbay Power, their coach is also getting his kicks.
“The satisfaction in seeing them develop and improve is really rewarding,” he said.
“Some have even moved on to get employment or education.
“Even though they won’t be able to play on the team any more, it’s still very rewarding.”
Wynbay Power’s first training session is on 6 April and their new season starts on 27 April.
For more information on how you can help the team this year call 9392 3272 or 9315 0061.
