The event brings together footballers with an intellectual disability from across the country, to take part in a round-robin carnival. 

Since starting on Monday, AFL Inclusion All Abilities manager Tim Nield said Tasmania had fully embraced the carnival’s message. 

“Tasmania put in a really awesome bid for this event and, so far, it has certainly lived up to that,” he said. 

“This carnival serves as a great opportunity to educate the public about the role people with a disability can play in sport, as well as their greater role in society.

“We have been blown away by the support the carnival has received.”

Throughout the week participants will also engage in a number of education sessions focused on healthy minds, healthy eating, employment and cyber bullying. 

With players aged 16 to 54, Mr Nield said the carnival was about creating opportunities for all people living with an intellectual disability, both on and off the field. 

“Sport brings people together and this is a great example of that,” he said. 

“This really is the starting point and hopefully it will only continue grow.

“Particularly at a grassroots level.

“We want each state to take back what they learn here and implement it into their own programs.

“Until you see what it means to the players, I don’t think people can fully appreciate the impact an event like this can have.”