For Natalie Vogtmann, football is about much more than what happens on the pitch.
After seeing a lack of sporting opportunities for young people with disabilities in the Nelson Bay community, Natalie decided to help create something that would give everyone the chance to experience football.
Alongside Melissa Threlfo and Cooper Toscano, Natalie helped launch the Nelson Bay Football4All program in 2025 after identifying the need while working at a local high school.
“I could see a huge need for something like this in the area. There is a huge lack of disability services for young people in our area,” Vogtmann said.
What started as an idea has continued to grow, with Football4All providing an inclusive environment where participants of all ages and abilities can play, make friends and feel part of a team.
The impact of the program has extended beyond the sessions themselves. Cooper Toscano developed a passion for football through Football4All before going on to represent Northern NSW Football at the 2025 National Para Football Championships in Melbourne.
“He is a huge inspiration and role model for the young kids,” Vogtmann said.
For Natalie, creating an inclusive environment is at the heart of everything she does.
“Inclusiveness is the key. We have all ages and a range of disabilities in our program and we adjust the sessions to suit. This is the first time most of these kids have been part of a team or played a team sport. Their encouragement for each other is so special,” she said.
That commitment has continued into 2026, with Natalie proudly running a free all-abilities football clinic during term three. Held on Thursday afternoons, the sessions have focused on creating an encouraging and inclusive environment where participants can build confidence, make friends and, most importantly, have fun.
For Natalie, it is another way of making sure local young people can experience the positive impact of being involved in sport.
And her message to other clubs considering creating similar opportunities is simple.
“Do it. It will soon become your favourite day of the week,” Vogtmann said.
“It is such a rewarding experience and one that will change you forever. Local kids need programs like this.”
Through her work at Nelson Bay, Natalie is helping create more than just opportunities to play football. She is helping young people find a place where they feel welcomed, supported and part of their local football community