FIVE AFL clubs will this year launch a new wheelchair football league open to those with a physical disability, mobility issues and able-bodied people interested in competing.

Collingwood, Essendon, Hawthorn, Richmond and St Kilda will compete in the league, named the Robert Rose Foundation Victorian Wheelchair Football League (VWFL), with 10 rounds to be played from May to August. The grand final will be played during the AFL’s pre-finals bye.

The statewide league will be the first opportunity for those with a physical disability to play AFL in a regular competition.

The league’s mission, in conjunction with Disability Sport and Recreation (DSR), will focus on promoting social inclusion and give more Victorians the opportunity to play sport.

The matches will be played on a basketball court with five players allowed on the court from each team at one time, while matches can also be played featuring three per side as a minimum. There will be no restriction on the number of players allowed on the bench.

Matches will feature four 10-minute quarters with no time-on, with a size five synthetic Sherrin to be used as the official ball.

Players will be assigned to set positions — forward, centre and defence — during games.

There is no kicking in the VWFL, with a handball the equivalent of a kick, and players are permitted to throw the ball using a single-handed underarm pass.

“Our mission at AFL Victoria is to be the most accessible sport for all Victorians, and the creation of this league is just another example of how we are working towards ensuring that every Victorian has the chance to play our great game,” AFL Victoria chief executive Steven Reaper said.

“In addition to our other disability programs we offer such as AFL Blind and the Victorian FIDA Football League, the establishment of the VWFL means that those people with a physical disability who never thought they would play AFL now have the chance to do so.

“In addition, DSR’s expertise in disability sport will be invaluable in managing and administering the teams in the VWFL. They have been at the forefront of AFL Wheelchair since its beginnings, and we’re delighted to work with them to assist the broader development of the sport in the future.”

Essendon chief executive Xavier Campbell said the club is excited to be involved.

“This is a fantastic initiative and we are proud to be one of the foundation clubs of the VWFL,” he said.

“Our club has a vision of being the most inclusive, successful and respected sporting organisation in Australia, and the creation of VWFL provides an important pathway for people with a disability to play the game they love.”

Hawthorn’s proposed new facility at Dingley will provide a home base for the club’s wheelchair team.

“Being granted a licence gives Hawthorn further opportunity to promote awareness, positivity and social change for not only the disabled community, but the entire Hawthorn family,” Hawks chief executive Justin Reeves said.

Round 1 of the VWFL season will commence on Sunday May 6 at Boroondara Sports Complex.