Football itself as a sport can be inspiring, but the stories of individuals and teams within it can provide that extra motivation and inspiration when heard.
That is the case with the new documentary Pararoos, chronicling the path of the Australian National team of the same name as their squad is selected from National Championships through to the 2017 World Championships in Argentina.
On Monday the 9th July, there will be an exclusive screening of the Pararoos Documentary at Palace Electric Theatre in Canberra. From 6:30pm, guests are invited to attend for a meet and greet, before heading into the cinema to watch the documentary. Tickets are limited and can be purchased here for $20.
Proceeds from the sale of tickets will go directly to the Pararoos program, and if you are unable to attend but would still like to contribute to the Pararoos you can make a donation here.
Athletes within the Pararoos suffer from Cerebral Palsy, acquired brain injuries and injuries acquired from stroke, and face hurdles not just in their quest to be the best in football but also in their everyday lives.
Ben Roche, Vice-Captain, was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at a young age and has worked tirelessly to represent Australia on the world stage and he will be at the exclusive screening to meet attendees.
Roche is one of the more public faces of the Pararoos, consistently looking to raise the profile of the side and has promoted the documentary heavily as well.
He debuted for the Pararoos at just 15, and said he is a believer in working hard to reach goals.
“Nothing work having comes without hard work,” he said.
“When you achieve your dream, it feels all the more special knowing how much you have devoted to it.”
In addressing the movie, Roche said that hopes that this documentary will raise the profile of the Pararoos and that it acts as a conversation starter about the team, and indeed Paralympic football in general.
Tickets can be purchased here.