April being Autism Awareness Month creates an opportunity for everyone and anyone to spread the message.
And this was the aim of a soccer tournament and fun day held at Rocklands High School sports grounds on Sunday 14 April.
Arranged by Yaknocka soccer club, the event included Mitchells Plain united and Warriors football clubs for u-8, u-10 and u-12 friendly matches.
Michelle Fillies, manager of the u-10 team and a mother to Blake, one of the two autistic boys registered to the club, says this was the second year they offered this event.
“We want to raise awareness for children with autism. My journey started around seven years ago. He was two years old when he was diagnosed and last year he started to show an interest and passion for soccer. I can say it has helped him a lot behaviourally,” she says.
Inclusive club
Club chair, Shane Joemath says they have encountered many children on the spectrum.
“As individuals, we don’t always have the necessary knowledge around these conditions, so this is to create awareness. I have a son on the spectrum. We are a club that does not discriminate. We give everyone an opportunity. Last year we had two clubs and this year we had two different clubs to help spread the message further,” he says.
