It’s winter, it’s footy season and football teams everywhere are out there kicking goals trying to achieve the ultimate prize.

But, for one football team in Maroondah, the ultimate prize is simply getting together each week and enjoying a good game of footy, no matter the score.

“The Ringwood Spiders football club (formerly the Ringwood Blues) began in 1992, and for fifteen years they’ve provided an opportunity for people with an intellectual disability to enjoy the camaraderie and sheer joy of playing footy,” said Councillor Alex Makin.

“Based at Jubilee Park, the Ringwood Spiders play on a regular basis as part of the state-wide Football Integration Development Association (FIDA) league, which includes teams from right across Victoria,” said Cr Makin.

“Council is very pleased to be able to provide funding assistance through the annual Community Grants program to assist the Ringwood Spiders with their activities – the latest match was against Moonee Ponds on Sunday 1 July at Jubilee Park, and the players were the winners,” said Cr Makin.

“The matches always attract a large crowd of local people, including members of our community who are living in assisted residential homes nearby. It becomes a big social event, one that the spectators can relate to easily and one where they can relax and simply enjoy themselves,” said Cr Makin.

“This is what Council’s Community Grants program is all about, providing funding to assist community organisations to develop and increase opportunities that increase access for Maroondah residents who have limited options due to special needs, low income, social isolation or ethnic background,” said Cr Makin.

Applications for Community Grants can be made from April each year, with applications closing in June.

For more information on Community Grants please contact Council on 1300 88 22 33 or visit the website at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au.