The Victorian Wheelchair Football League (VWFL) will be back in action on Sunday, 17 May, with Collingwood's wheelchair squad facing Essendon in Round 1.
Now in its ninth season, the VWFL has wheelchair teams from five AFL clubs - Richmond, Collingwood, St Kilda, Hawthorn and Essendon -competing across the Championship and Community divisions.
The league provides an adaptive version of Australian Rules football for people living with disabilities.
Both divisions will open their seasons on Sunday, 17 May at the State Netball and Hockey Centre.
You can refer to the full fixture here.
Who is in the team?
Championship Division ⎯ Will Crooks, Vincent Falcone, Ben Jankovski, Sam Maraldo, Anthony Perito, Michael Telban.
Community Division ⎯ Aaron Cutajar, Jack Elliott, Alex McKay, Tim O’Connor, Andrew Paddles, Kylie Prestwich, Arnold Razon, Kaine Sinclair.
Who will lead the team?
The leadership group is yet to be confirmed, with the voting set to conclude before the annual season launch presentation at the KGM Centre on Friday, May 15.
Who will coach the teams?
Andrew Paddle will return as Championship Division Senior Coach, a role he has held since 2022. Paddle will also pull on the black and white jumper in the Community Division this season, joining the playing list for the first time in more than three years.
The Community Division will be led by dual Senior Coaches, with Championship Division players Sam Maraldo and Anthony Perito set to share coaching duties.
Can I attend?
Yes! Entry is FREE.
How are the teams placed?
Championship Division
2025 Club Best & Fairest winner Michael Telban has been elevated to the Championship Division after a breakout debut season, with new recruit Vincent Falcone also joining the squad.
The Championship Magpies will look to carry their 2025 momentum into the 2026 season as they aim to overcome the dominant Tigers.
Community Division
The new‑look Community Magpies will be with a smaller squad and a renewed focus on developing their current list.
The group will look to bounce back from their Preliminary Final exit last year and rediscover the consistency that underpinned their earlier success in the season.
How can I watch or attend?
All games will be live streamed via the Victorian Wheelchair Football League Facebook page.
How do I stay connected?
For all the latest news, scores and highlights, follow Collingwood’s AFL handles on X, Facebook and Instagram.
The Community Foundation website is updated regularly with the latest Community stories, and information on Collingwood Wheelchair Football.
