Western Sydney Wanderers have announced a collaboration with Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) to create a football clinic specifically designed for children on the autism spectrum who live in Sydney’s western suburbs.
This partnership allows the Wanderers to further connect with the Western Sydney community, something that they have been conscious of in the past, as well as specifically focusing on special needs children who need specific requirements in order to participate in these spaces.
The program, in its first year, has been designed for children aged 5-12 years and will run during the upcoming school holiday period.
Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) is Australia’s largest autism-specific service provider, with one of the biggest autism-specific school programs in the world. They are a not-for-profit organisation that work in partnership with people of all ages on the autism spectrum, and their families to deliver evidence-informed solutions that are person-centred, family-focused and customer driven.
More than 7,000 people in Western Sydney are officially diagnosed as Autistic and one of the key challenges faced by many families is accessing leisure and social activities that cater to their unique needs.
Tom Tutton, Executive Manager of Aspect Practice said the collaboration with a big professional Football club is a big step forward for the community.
“We applaud the team at Western Sydney Wanderers for initiating an inclusive program so that all children can participate in sporting endeavours, in an environment that works for them,” Mr Tutton stated in a Wanderers press release.
“Together, we have developed a soccer clinic that will foster self-confidence, skill development and importantly, provide a sense of community. The coaches are experienced in working with Autistic children and the environment and program has been assessed to ensure it will deliver an engaging experience for children on the autism spectrum, and their families.
“Sensory supports such as no whistle are in place along with a structured session and teaching approach and a visual timetable for increased predictability.”
Danny Egarchos, Community Manager at Western Sydney Wanderers, explained the importance of providing access to Football to all children in the community.
“As a local club, it is important that we ensure all members of our community – particularly our younger generation – can participate in soccer, and this means adapting programs to ensure inclusivity,” he added in the club press release.
“We are proud to work with Aspect’s Autism Friendly team and create a soccer clinic that is accessible for children on the autism spectrum. This means, children can take breaks during the clinic when required and there will be a visual story provided ahead of the clinic to help with preparation and knowing what to expect on the day. And most importantly, the focus will be on having fun.”
The Wanderers are using their large scale platform to involve a community that requires more leisure-based programs that caters to Autistic children. It is an extremely rewarding move for both parties and the benefits go directly towards the Western Sydney community, a focus that has been present from the Wanderers for a long time.
