Western Storm recreation program uses sport to assist participants to develop a sense of belonging, value and community connectedness.
Western Storm is a participant in the Reclink League which aims to reduce the barriers to participation in mainstream sporting competitions by providing resources, support and encouragement. In doing so it provides an opportunity for participants to improve their health and wellbeing.
The Western Storm is a recreation based cricket, football and boxing program supported of the Western Region Health Centre and is funded by the Day to Day Living initiative.
Eligibility
The program targets people who are disadvantaged in their ability to access health services and who may encounter numerous difficulties such as homelessness and mental health issues.
Aims
The Western Storm program facilitates the health and wellbeing of the target group through the provision of an accessible structured sporting opportunity.
1. To improve mental and physical health
2. To create a sense of wellbeing
3. To promote a healthy lifestyle
4. To address social isolation.
The Western Storm Program is coordinated by a Recreation Support Worker, who is employed two days per week and based at the ACACIA program. The worker coordinates, recruits, manages and trains the team. The program also offers a strong volunteer support base including Footscray Police. All sporting equipment required is provided by the Western Storm program.
Schedule
• During the spring and summer seasons, the Cricket team participates in two cricket competitions with training occurring weekly
• The Western Storm Football team partakes in the autumn winter football competition with practice weekly
• The Boxing program is run throughout the year on a weekly basis
Achievements
• The Western Storm has participated in the last four Premierships for both cricket and football
• This year Western Storm engaged elite Sporting Consultants, Leading Teams to assist with team development and offer strategic leadership
• The Western Storm boxing program is supervised by a local ex Australian Boxing Coach
• Western Storm collaborates closely with local community services such as the Footscray Police, Maribyrnong Council and the Mental Illness Fellowship of Victoria.
Referrals
Can be made by self, organisation, family or carers either by telephone on 03 9362 8181 or drop into:
215 Nicholson St, Footscray 3011.
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