The inaugural year of the White Knights, part of the ESFA Accessible Football program, has been a huge success with expansion plans set for 2011.

The program kicked off on 17 April at Heffron Park, by former Competitions Manager, Taleah Neowhouse. The team started with just five players but quickly grew to 15 by the end of the season.

“It is a weekly opportunity for people with special needs to practice and participate on the football field,” Neowhouse explains.

Part of the White Knights’ success was the contribution from its valuable coaching staff. John Hunt, from Coogee United and John Casey, from Love Football, brought with them a wealth of professional experience.

The achievement of the program saw it receive sponsorship from Link Market Services, whose generous support enabled the players to be provided with uniforms and specialised training.

Sydney FC midfielder, Rhyan Grant, also donated his time to present the White Knights with their jerseys and pose for photographs with the players.

The White Knights are looking to expand into two teams in 2011 and continue to provide as many opportunities as possible for children with special needs to play the game of football.

“The long-term goal eventually is to get the kids who want to play competitively and put them into a program where we travel around and play different associations and have the kids who don’t want to play competitively to continue with the program,” Neowhouse said.

For more information about the White Knights, or if you are interested in getting involved, please visit the ESFA website or contact ESFA for more information.