By Ken Anthony, Perth SC Blind Football Head Coach
WOW! Neuroscientists have discovered that when we are overwhelmed with joy — so much so that we become “speechless with elation” — the brain turns to somatosensory compensations. When words fall short, the body steps in: waves of warmth, surges of energy, a deep sense of presence, and grounded peace. These embodied sensations allow us to remain comfortable in the intensity of the moment, helping us absorb and integrate that overwhelming positive energy into something we can truly live, feel, and carry with us — even without words.
And so, I will stumble along and attempt to capture the beauty of the game played at its highest potential, with some amazing, exceptional, and astounding athletes. We were overjoyed to welcome both our NPL Women’s team — the current league champions for 2025 — and our NPL Men’s team to step onto the court and test their skills against our PSC Blind Futsal State Team.
First and foremost, congratulations to all the players for their bravery and generosity. To dedicate time on a Sunday — after playing full matches on Saturday — speaks volumes about their character and love for the game.
The sessions began with a high-tempo introduction to blind futsal: a safety briefing, fundamentals of play, and gradual progression to build confidence. Players first wore partial-vision blindfolds to simulate vision loss, forcing them to rely on auditory processing and adapt quickly to the challenges of navigating without peripheral vision. This sudden shift also tested proprioception and balance, demanding trust in their bodies and in each other.
Once warmed up, the full blindfolds came on — simulating B1 level no-vision play. This pushed the athletes to their limits. Suddenly, survival depended on trust: trusting their sighted goalkeeper, who acts as guide, coach, and communicator, constantly reorienting players to teammates, the ball, and the opposition. The depth of “newfound sightlessness” was confronting, but both squads responded with resilience, strengthening internal communication and adapting at remarkable speed.
Player Highlights
Claudio – Stepping in as our second-string goalkeeper, Claudio rose to the challenge and produced some quality saves under pressure. His confidence grew with every attack repelled, and his presence anchored our defence.
Ali – Today’s standout player. She was simply outstanding in the sweeper role, fearless in defence, and constantly disrupting opposition attacks like a whirlwind. Her positioning and tenacity were a masterclass in blind futsal defending.
Tom – Took a heavy knock from an opposing striker but showed incredible resilience, bouncing straight back to his feet and finding his second wind. His determination inspired those around him and strengthened our defensive wall.
Kade & Rishi – A tireless duo on the wings, driving play down both flanks, dropping back to support defensively, and then surging forward to attack. Their synchronicity was seamless, both finding the back of the net with phenomenal goals while also unselfishly creating opportunities for teammates.
Salih (“the Bull”) – Relentless up front, putting constant pressure on the opposition’s goalkeeper, dragging defenders out of position, and opening channels for others to strike. His strength and work rate were rewarded with goals of his own, and his presence as punta (centre forward) kept the opposition on edge all game.
Together, our PSC Blind Futsal players shone with extraordinary skill: fluid passing in triangles, clever through balls, sharp finishing from tight angles, and relentless attacking pressure that kept play in the opposition half. It was a stunning showcase of talent, teamwork, and determination — a graceful dance of resilience and brilliance.
To say I am proud is an understatement. I am deeply honoured and inspired to be their coach. Each session, each game, these players are growing in leaps and bounds. Today was more than a match — it was a memory, an experience of pure heart and ethical sport, one that left all of us warmed and uplifted.
A huge thank you to Head NPLW Senior Coach Tom Glavovic for sending his squad, and to Head NPLM Senior Coach Kenny Lowe, Assistant Coach Ellis Healing, Goalkeeper Coach Tommy Maras, and Team Manager Calvin Ross for being present and part of the occasion. Your support made this day even more special.