Phillip Whitehead isn’t a person of many words, however this gifted athletes ability on the soccer field leaves most people (team opposition included), speechless!
A resident of the Community Justice Program (CJP), Phillip entered Lifestyle Solutions support services in September 2010. Two years later and with plenty support from family and staff, Phillip turned his dream of representing Australia in soccer into an unimaginable reality.
A NSW Representative in Futsal, Phillip was invited along with 24 other individuals from around Australia to form the initial train on squad back in April 2011. Of the 25 participants, only 10 athletes would be selected to represent Australia at the 3rd INAS Global Games being held in Italy in September 2011.
It came as a complete surprise to Phillip when he received THE phone call from the Australian Futsal panel advising of his selection.
On September 23rd the Australian ‘Crocs’ AWD (Athletes with Disabilities) Futsal team headed for Genoa, Italy to compete in the 3rd INAS Global Games for a two week tournament. The competition was fierce as Australia took on the best from Portugal, Italy, France, Hungary, Poland, Iran and Brazil in what was an amazing opportunity for Australia.
Unfortunately for Phillip and his team mates, a top three finish wasn’t on the cards. What Phillip and the rest of the Australian Crocs took from this tournament was the dignity displayed in the Australian trait of never giving in no matter how great the odds. In this competition the boys faced men who have played the game for years and are in constant competition of a high standard.
For Phillip the rewards he gained from this journey will develop him not only as a footballer, but also as a young man. Congratulations!