Turner Recognised in AFL Volunteer AwardsThursday, August 24, 2023 - 1:12 PM

Rob Turner is not a fan of the spotlight, he is much more comfortable talking about his players, teammates and fellow volunteers.

Turner has been awarded the National AFL Disability Inclusion Ambassador of the Year for displaying exceptional leadership in engaging people with disabilities in football.

Turner established the first All-Abilities Football team in the south-east corridor at Kelmscott Football Club, which has created unprecedented opportunities for individuals living with disabilities to participate.

Turner was announced the National winner prior to the WA All-Abilities Football Assocation’s Draft Combine in front of 100 people, many who have played, trained or worked alongside the Kelmscott Integrated Team Coach. 

“It’s a true honour, as I truly know how much dedication and sacrifice many others are devoting to their own community football clubs, leagues and players as well as those who do so much for Disability and Inclusion in Football and our communities,” Turner said.

“I am very grateful for the accolade and award. 

“However, it’s the participants who are the heroes and the real reason I and many others do this. Their aspiration and raw desire to play is the purest form of grass roots football.”

Almost ten years ago Turner came up with the concept to create a Kelmscott team for the Integrated Competition, it wasn’t easy, but he had support from the WA All Abilities Football Association.

“I had been following the competition in previous seasons and could see great benefit and a need for a team in our community,” he said.

“My father Kim Turner (550 Club games) was the president of the football club at the time, and we ran our first “Have A Go Try Day” for education support students at the Armadale Senior High School, where students with disability were given opportunity to wear a uniform and play in a match against each other, just like their AFL Heroes.

“I campaigned the City of Armadale and surrounding councils, engaging with every Disability service provider and Local Schools, as well as Inclusion Focused Groups and Events.

“It’s been a wonderful and special journey, and I can't wait to see what more we can achieve for Inclusion in Football and Community. 

“In 2021, we started with just seven players, and now boast over 40 playing participants and a great following of supporters.

“The team and club have been instrumental in changing community inclusion and growing opportunities for people living with disability and/or difficulties, while growing Inclusion in AFL Football.”

Turner has experienced the highs of football, having played over 200 games for Kelmscott and wants every person to experience the great game of AFL.

“I don’t have a background in disability, but I have a strong passion for community football,” he said.

“Providing an opportunity for people living with disability to experience and share this passion is extremely uplifting. 

“Despite the hardest days and difficulties in our lives, coming together at training or for a game, or in a social setting, everyone can be supported and share the joy that comes from community football clubs. 

“I couldn’t imagine not being involved in Integrated or Inclusion Football.”