Avondale FC has partnered with Yellow Ladybugs, an organisation dedicated to the wellbeing of autistic girls and women through creating social events, to provide a free clinic this weekend for willing participants.
The clinic, for autistic girls and women, will be held at the Avengers’ home ground in Doyle Street, Avondale Heights on Saturday 20th August from 9.30am
Club technical director and program coach Mick Gallo, who is a dad to a daughter with autism, is leading the program and will be teaching a range of soccer skills – including dribbling, passing and shooting – on the day.
The event will followed by a BBQ for all participants and their families to have a chance to socialise afterwards.
“This is something we feel passionate about, as I have three children on the autism spectrum, and one playing in the National Premier League with Avondale FC,” Gallo said.
“My wife Jessica – a qualified integration aide – and I decided as part of the club’s family vision and philosophy that we wanted to give back and provide for more than the mainstream schools and groups.
“This is the start of a plan we have to create opportunities for children on the autism spectrum to have a chance to enjoy the beautiful game of football, and put a smile on their faces.
“In my role as the technical director at Avondale FC, I am also a qualified coach educator, delivering courses for coaches on behalf of the Football Federation Australia and Football Federation Victoria.
“We would really like to get this initiative out there and show what we as a club are doing for the wider community and developing what inclusion is. We are working with the Yellow Ladybugs, and have plans to expand to include AMAZE in future sessions we run.”
In a boost for the club, CJ from CM Sports in Craigieburn has offered to support the event by provided shin guards for all of the participants at no charge.
Coach education manager Craig Moore and all abilities program coordinator Megan Smith from the FFV will also be in attendance at the clinic.
For those interested, further information can be provided by contacting Rosemary McKenzie on 0408 037 882.
All images provided.