WA Cricket, Adam Gilchrist and the Autism Association of WA are driving inclusion in cricket with the annual Autism in Cricket Come and Try Day held on Saturday 4 September.
The WACA Ground hosted more than 170 children with Autism and their families when they joined Gilchrist and our WA State players for a day on the iconic cricket Ground.
In its second year, the award-winning program has expanded to more than 100 registered participants in over 13 Endorsed Autism in Cricket clubs across Perth, with numbers still climbing.
The program is designed to break down barriers to participation and help individuals with Autism to get involved in their local cricket club as a player or volunteer.
Throughout the season support is offered to children, adolescents and adults with Autism and their families, and works with local cricket clubs to create inclusive environments.
WA Cricket CEO Christina Matthews said;
“WA Cricket showcases our commitment to inclusion through incredible programs like Autism in Cricket.
“The work that Autism Association of Western Australia do is vital for our community and this partnership has provided crucial ongoing support to families, staff and clubs to ensure all have a positive experience and are welcomed to an inclusive club community.”
Former Australian Cricketer and the Autism in Cricket ambassador Adam Gilchrist said;
“The Autism in Cricket program has had a positive effect particularly on families who have felt on the outer before and haven’t had the confidence, who don’t know where to go and what club to go to feel embraced.
“To be a part of a club and any sporting club provides a sense of belonging, and it’s a great way to forge relationships and friendships.
“Part of what we’re talking about in the program is that every community cricket club and every role is like a link in the chain, and my opportunity to be an ambassador is a link in the chain.
“What really motivates me is you want to see inclusiveness and engagement of everyone in the community or at least provide that opportunity and that’s certainly what this program does. To become a part of this program and to embrace it is not only going to broaden the horizons the club but everyone on a personal level.”
Director of Therapy and Clinical Services at Autism Association of Western Australia, Tasha Alach said;
“Cricket is not just about the individual – it is about the joy and satisfaction of being part of the team. That is why the Autism in Cricket Team are passionate about breaking down the barriers for inclusion in sport and seeing children and adults with Autism become a part of their local cricket club.
“We know there can be barriers for individuals with Autism when it comes to sport, but we also know how important it is for them to be involved in their local community in a meaningful way. It is not only great for them, but also especially great for the community.”
The Come and Try Day provides an opportunity for the participants and their families to give cricket a go while also will also providing the opportunity to talk with members of the Autism in Cricket Team, WA Cricket staff and Endorsed Clubs, for support linking up their local cricket club as a player or in other roles.
