The Ringwood Spiders Football Club competes in the Football Integration Development Association (FIDA), which provides a football program for people with mild to medium intellectual disabilities.

This season has marked an impressive year for the Ringwood Spiders with the group becoming incorporated and a committee being established to oversee the development of the club. In addition the Ringwood Spiders has provided sponsorship opportunities for businesses and individuals to sponsor a player and assist in funding equipment for the club.

I was pleased to be one of the 2008 sponsors, through supporting Tom Raisebeck one of the new players in the 2008 season. Sponsorship is available for $150 and provides a great way of supporting the Ringwood Spiders and their aim of providing people with disabilities an opportunity to interact, participate and build social skills and leadership.

The off-field success for the Spiders was replicated on the field with the club winning four games in the season and making it into the semi-finals. In addition the Spiders implemented a pre-season training program and several players had the opportunity to participate FIDA’s City v Country game, as well as interstate games.

A strong team spirit has evolved throughout this year and tonight’s function provided a chance to celebrate the season and share in the enthusiasm for the club. The Ringwood Spiders have come a long way in this season and no doubt they will be an even greater force in 2009!