“To be a part of a club and any sporting club is the sense of belonging, it’s a great way to forge relationships and friendships” – Adam Gilchrist.
More than 160 participants and their families united on the WACA Ground today as part of the annual Autism in Cricket Come and Try Session.
The event, hosted by the Autism Association of Western Australia, and proudly supported by the WA Cricket Foundation, provided participants the opportunity to explore their love for our great game in a safe and inclusive environment.
A range of inclusive strategies and support were available on the day, including textured sensory balls and catching nets for players with motor difficulties, a team of specialist Autism Association volunteers and a free-play sensory space.
Now in its third year, the award-winning Autism in Cricket program has expanded to more registered participants than ever before across 11 Endorsed Clubs, with numbers set to climb this summer.
The Autism in Cricket program is designed to break down barriers to participation and support individuals with Autism to get involved in their local cricket club.
Participants and their families are supported throughout the season, whether they wish to become a player in their local club or part of the club community in other roles.
Busselton locals Daniel and his son Liam travelled to the WACA Ground to take part in the experience. His son was diagnosed with Autism earlier this year, and has played Vasse Cricket Club for three seasons.
Daniel said it was fantastic to see so many kids and their families come along and enjoy the event.
“My son lives and breathes cricket, we didn’t want to miss today’s event.”
“Everyone is has had so much fun, and today showcases how inclusive cricket is, it’s a game that can be enjoyed by everyone,” he said.
Endorsed Clubs are also offered free specialist training on Autism and inclusion, support during training sessions and games to model and guide inclusive strategies, and access to individualised resources developed to meet the specific needs of each participant.
WA Cricket CEO, Christina Matthews, was delighted to see the participants having a great time on the WACA Ground.
“The WA Cricket Foundation is proud to support incredible programs such as Autism in Cricket.”
“The hard work and dedication of the Autism Association of Western Australia is vital in ensuring cricket is truly a sport for all, and this partnership provides ongoing support for families, staff and clubs to guarantee every Western Australian can find their place in our game,” she said.
Australian cricket legend Adam Gilchrist joined in on the fun as Autism in Cricket ambassador, signing autographs and joining in on activities.
“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.”
“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,” he said.
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”.
For more information on the Autism in Cricket program visit www.autism.org.au/cricket/