Australia’s peak body for deaf and hearing impaired football is calling out inadequate funding and support for the national women’s team, as the side prepares to take on reigning gold medalists USA, in Denver Colorado.
Deaf Football Australia President Raymond Younan says it’s the first time the women’s side will play an international game outside of Australia in 20 years, after a lack of funding forced the side to abruptly withdraw from the World Deaf Football Championships in Malaysia last year.
“It’s actually embarrassing that these players have to beg and borrow for donations from family and friends so they can pay their own way, while proudly representing Australia,” Younan says.
This week, the 18-person team, along with coaches and support staff will fly to Denver, Colorado at their own expense, to play rivals USA on June 1 as part of a historic, curtain raiser for the face-off between the four-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion team and Korea Republic in front of 20,000 fans and televised for millions more to see.
“Each player in the past, has had to contribute up to $5,000 each to pay their own way, to cover flights, accommodation, food and resources, plus take time off from work. Some just can’t afford it and we’ve lost valuable players in the past. Thanks to the generosity of the US Soccer Federation, the women's team will be assisted financially for this event.
“We know how hard it is to be constantly trying to make ends meet, working full-time jobs and frantically fundraising, all while training to be the best athletes possible.”
One in six Australians live with hearing loss and Younan is hopeful more Australians will rally around our incredible deaf athletes like they support the Matildas.
It’s a requirement for all players to remove their cochlear ear implants or hearing aids before taking to the field.
“They are inspiring to watch, the way they use hand signals to talk to one another on the field.
“Our Motto is ‘Come Hear us Play’ and I’d love for the nation to rally around our incredible deaf athletes like they rallied around The Matildas, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity that’s been years in the making,” he adds.
The peak body is calling for the Australian Football Federation, Federal and State Governments to extend their hand and help out financially.
“Historically, that hasn’t happened and consequently our players miss out on vital opportunities to improve and compete - once again it’s women's sport that takes the biggest hit,” Younan says.