Politicians let their boots do the talking as they took on Doveton Special Soccer School players in a friendly fixture on 26 November.
In what’s now becoming a convivial tradition, nine Victorian ALP pollies – including Deputy Premier James Merlino, Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams, state Upper House MP Adem Somyurek and former Bruce MP Alan Griffin – put on a spirited display at Waratah Reserve but were pipped 3-0.
It was a stark improvement on last year’s 10-1 drubbing won by the DSSS.
After the game, players on both sides enjoyed banter at a barbecue – even Mr Merlino who hobbled off late in the game with a pulled hammy.
The game was organised by Ms Williams and DSSS founder Juan Carlos Loyola to raise awareness about the soccer school’s program.
The DSSS has been run by Mr Loyola for 24 years to give players of all ages with intellectual disabilities a chance to play and train.
Ms Williams said the soccer school was integral to the community.
“It enables people of all abilities to have the opportunity to participate in physical activity and reap the social, physical and mental health benefits of playing team sport.
“We love our sport in Dandenong and this annual soccer match is a fantastic demonstration of how sport brings people and communities together.”
Other MPs who took the field included Frankston MP Paul Edbrooke and Eastern Metro Region MP Shaun Leane.
Melton MP Don Nardella warmed the bench.
