Melbourne City’s Powerchair team is set to return to the national stage next month, with the reigning champions ready to defend their title at the 2026 APFA National Club Championships.
Taking place from 14–18 April in New South Wales, the tournament will once again bring together the top powerchair football clubs from across Australia and New Zealand, with City heading in as the team to beat after a historic campaign last year.
Champions ready to defend
City’s Powerchair side produced a remarkable run at the 2025 Championships, going undefeated across the entire tournament to claim the national title.
After winning all 10 of their group stage matches, the team carried that momentum into the finals, securing a semi-final victory before defeating three-time champions Newcastle Jets 2-0 in the decider.
It was a dominant performance from start to finish, with City lifting the trophy in Brisbane after winning every single match of the campaign.
Now, with that success behind them, the focus shifts to going back-to-back in 2026.
A strong squad heading to NSW
Led by captain Luke David, City will once again field a talented and experienced squad, including Shaun Millett, Rebecca Evans, Shaun Mott and Santo Bongiovanni.
The group has continued to build throughout the year, competing in the Victorian Powerchair Football League while ramping up preparations with additional training sessions ahead of the Championships.
There is also added motivation for several players, with several members of the squad in contention for selection in the Australian Poweroos squad ahead of the 2026 FIPFA World Cup later this year.
A big week of competition awaits
City will face a packed schedule across the five-day tournament, taking on clubs from across the country and New Zealand in what promises to be another highly competitive edition of the Championships.
With matchups against the likes of Sydney FC, Newcastle Jets and Western Sydney Wanderers on the schedule, there will be no shortage of tough tests as City looks to once again rise to the top.
Backing our Powerchair team
As one of the most inspiring and successful programs within the Club, City’s Powerchair team continues to go from strength to strength, both on and off the court.
With a national title to defend and another opportunity to showcase the very best of the sport, all eyes will be on City as the 2026 Championships get underway.
Stay tuned to our channels for updates across the tournament as we back our Powerchair team in their quest for back-to-back titles.
You can also click here to follow the Melbourne City Powerchair team on Instagram.
