Chasing the Dream: GAP Ambassador Heads to the Deaflympics

By Greyhounds as Pets NSW

November 13, 2025 09:54

She’s 16, fiercely determined, and about to step onto the world stage. For Mikaylah DeGennaro, football is more than a sport - it’s proof that belief, resilience, and the right support can take you anywhere.

As the Australian Women’s Deaf Football Team touched down in Japan this week ahead of the 25th Summer Deaflympics, Mikaylah is taking a moment to reflect on the team behind the team, including an unexpected and heartwarming supporter: Greyhounds as Pets NSW (GAP NSW).

A Journey Fuelled by Resilience

Born profoundly deaf, Mikaylah wears bilateral cochlear implants and has never let her hearing loss define her limits. Now, at just 16, she’s one of the youngest athletes in Australia’s largest-ever Deaflympics delegation, with 143 athletes competing across nine sports during 12 inspiring days of competition.

From 15-26 November, Mikaylah will join over 3,000 athletes from more than 70 countries in Tokyo, competing across 21 sports at an event marking the 100th anniversary of the Deaflympics, the pinnacle of deaf sport worldwide.

“This journey has taken belief, resilience, and so much support,” says Mikaylah.
“Greyhounds as Pets NSW believed in me and my team when we needed it most. Their contribution hasn’t just made this trip possible; it’s helped us feel seen.”

Mikaylah (right) with Team Captain Jessica Waters (left) and two Greyhounds hoping to find a forever home

The Power of Community Support

The partnership between GAP NSW and Mikaylah began earlier this year, when the organisation proudly sponsored her as part of her journey to Japan, helping to cover essential costs for training, travel, and tournament preparation.

But the connection runs deeper than funding.

Mikaylah is now an official Ambassador for Greyhounds as Pets NSW, promoting Greyhounds as affectionate, calm, and family-friendly pets. She’s attended adoption events, shared her story with GAP supporters, and become a living example of what can happen when someone is given a chance to thrive.

“Mikaylah is an extraordinary role model,” said Mark Slater, Chief Welfare Officer at GAP NSW.
“Her story reflects everything we stand for: optimism, inclusion, resilience, and the power of being given a chance to shine. Supporting her journey to the Deaflympics was a natural fit.”

Mikaylah presenting Mark Slater Chief Welfare Officer with her Australian Jersey

From Engadine to the World Stage

Mikaylah’s parents, Corry and Sue, couldn’t be prouder.

“Mikaylah has never complained about her deafness, nor has it ever held her back from the sport she loves or achieving anything in life,” they shared.

Mikaylah with proud parents Sue & Corry

A Team with History in the Making

The Australian Women’s Deaf Football Team, governed by Deaf Football Australia (DFA), is preparing to compete against top international teams, with the goal of becoming the first Australian football team to ever win a medal at an IOC-sanctioned event.

Earlier this year, the team travelled to the United States for their first international tour in 20 years, a vital step in their preparation for Tokyo. Looking ahead, Australia will host the Deaf Football World Cup in 2027, with all matches set to be played at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta.

“We may not be the biggest team or the most well-known,” says Mikaylah, “But we’re proud, we’re ready, and we’re playing for every kid who thought being deaf meant they couldn’t go this far.”

The teams final training session in Sydney featured not just teammates and coaches, but also two Greyhounds who joined the squad on the sidelines for support and cuddles.

The 2025 Women's Australia Deaflympic Team

Where to Watch & Support

GAP NSW will be sharing regular updates on Mikaylah’s journey via social media throughout the Deaflympics. You can also watch the matches live via YouTube below.

📅 Women’s Competition Schedule:

15 Nov: Great Britain vs Australia @ 2:00 PM AEDT
19 Nov: Australia vs USA @ 2:00 PM AEDT
21 Nov: Japan vs Australia @ 2:00 PM AEDT

📅 Men’s Competition Schedule:

14 Nov: Australia vs Turkey @ 6:30 PM AEDT
16 Nov: South Korea vs Australia @ 2:00 PM AEDT

Watch live: YouTube Stream – JDFA Channel

Adopt Happiness. Back Belief.

At Greyhounds as Pets NSW, we want to help everyone fulfil their potential & thrive - dogs & humans. We’re honoured to stand beside Mikaylah as she chases her dream and represents everything that makes us proud: heart, hope, and happiness.

Want to Help?

The entire Australian Deaflympics delegation is self-funded. If you’d like to support the team, contact:
Brian Seymour - Secretary, Deaf Football Australia, email: secretary@deaffootballaustralia.com.au