Football West and Football Futures Foundation congratulate the four West Australians selected for the upcoming 2024 IFCPF World Cup in Spain.
Alessandro La Verghetta, Giacomo Izzo, and Rafferty Bacon are in the CommBank Pararoos squad, while Katelyn Smith has made the CommBank ParaMatildas squad. This is the first international tournament for Bacon and the uncapped Izzo.
All four have come through the WA Para Football Program, delivered by Football Futures Foundation, and as part of the Gold Fields WA Para Football State Team, supported by Football West.
The IFCPF (International Federation of Cerebral Palsy Football) World Cup is the pinnacle of international para football, featuring the world’s best players living with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, symptoms of stroke or similar neuromuscular conditions.
Football Futures Foundation Executive Officer Michael Kerr said: "We are incredibly proud of Alessandro, Giacomo, and Rafferty for their selection to the CommBank Pararoos squad and for Katelyn’s selection to the CommBank ParaMatildas squad. Their hard work, determination, and passion for the game have been truly inspiring, and this is a well-deserved reward for their efforts. This achievement is a testament to the impact of the WA Para Football Program, and we are excited to see these players represent Australia on the world stage."
The announcement comes as Gold Fields WA Para Football State Team head coach Fadi Ma'ayah is stepping down after more than seven years in the role. Ma'ayah has played a pivotal role in shaping the program and nurturing the development of para football in Western Australia, with many of his players going on to achieve national and international success.
Football West Chief Operating Officer Perry Ielati said: "Fadi has been an incredible leader and mentor to our players and his commitment to para football has left a lasting legacy. We thank him for his outstanding contribution to the WA Para Football Program and wish him all the best in his future endeavours."
The search for a new head coach will commence shortly and interested applicants are encouraged to contact Football Futures Foundation at hello@footballfutures.org.au.
The IFCPF World Cup takes place in Salou from 2-10 November in Salou. For more information, visit: www.footballaustralia.com.au/news
Support the CommBank Pararoos and ParaMatildas by joining in The Undefeated Challenge – a fundraising initiative to help generate crucial financial support and raise awareness about para football. Learn more: www.footballaustralia.com.au/news/join-undefeated-challenge-support-australias-cp-football-stars