Essendon Bombers Support Annual What Ability Day

Essendon Football Club has reaffirmed its commitment to community connection, with several AFL and AFLW stars headlining the annual “What Ability Day”at AAMI Park on Sunday.

The event brought together hundreds of participants living with disabilities for a high-energy day of sport, designed to break down barriers to participation through the power of the “red and black.”

The activation saw Bombers players Harry Jones, Kyle Langford, Georgia Nanscawen, Amy Gaylor, and Mia Busch lead a series of inclusive clinics. From kick-to-kick sessions and handball challenges to autograph signings and one-on-one mentorship, the day focused on providing a premium experience for families within the disability sector.

Commenting on the program, Essendon forward, Kyle Langford, said: “What Ability is all about bringing fun and joy to those living with a disability.”

“I probably started here three or four years ago and worked as a support worker… I just love going out, learning about these kids and their lives and helping their families,” Langford said.

Essendon general manager of strategy and women’s football, Erin Lorenzini, noted that the club prides itself on an environment where players are encouraged to lead “into this next chapter” of community service.

The initiative is part of the club’s 2026 plan to deepen its footprint in the inclusive sports space, ensuring the impact of the club extends well beyond the final siren.

Community Integration

“What Ability” is a leading disability support organisation that specialises in community access by connecting participants with professional and semi-professional athletes. For Essendon, the partnership is a core pillar of its broader community program, moving beyond traditional sponsorship into active workforce participation.

A significant number of the club’s AFLW and AFL players are currently employed as support workers for the agency, a move that provides athletes with professional development while offering participants highly recognisable and “energetic” role models.

Key Event Highlights:

• Inclusive Clinics: Tailored AFL skills sessions at AAMI Park.
• Athlete Integration: Support workers from both the AFL and AFLW rosters.
• Community Reach: Hundreds of families engaged through the What Ability Foundation network.

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