Modified AFL program allows all kids to have a go
Kickability, the modified AFL program, is being launched for the very first time on the Northern Beaches at the Pittwater Tigers Junior AFL Club.
Thanks to a grant from AAMI Insurance, support from AFL NSW/ ACT, coaching from AFL Kids, and a team of professional disability sports support staff providing a one to five ratio of support, Pittwater Tigers has established a comprehensive Kickability Program for 2024 and beyond.
The AAMI Clangers for Good program helps local football clubs by turning mistakes into good. For every foul – or clanger – committed during a professional AFL match, AAMI donates $10 to local clubs, with eight set to win up to $15,000 each.
Skye Rose, one of the organisers of Kickability and secretary of Pittwater Tigers, says her son Dane, 15, lives with autism and could not play regular AFL as it was too rough for him. Skye says he was ‘thrilled’ when the club was chosen for the AAMI prize, which was $11,000.
Dane and his mum Skye
The club has engaged a specialist disability coach. They also have several disability sports support staff who are used to working with kids with all sorts of challenges and disabilities, from autism or sensory issues or physical issues, including children with cerebral palsy.
“We’re able to take on many children with their varying challenges and disabilities so that they can become involved in a very modified form of and no contact Australian Rules Football,” she says.
“It’s skills-based, so there’ll be lots of drills,” says Skye. “With the goal of getting into proper games (such as Sydney Gala Day) towards the end of the year.”
Pittwater Tigers are offering heavily discounted registration, free socks, shorts and a loaned guernsey for the May to August season to all Kickability registrations. All you need is footy boots! Active Kids vouchers are also accepted.
Dane learns to kick with Kickability
AFL NSW/ACT is completely behind Kickability at Pittwater, with Simon Wilson, its diversity and inclusion manager saying: “The AFL is committed to ensuring all people have access to our great game, and it’s a credit that the Pittwater Tigers have taken it upon themselves to run a Kickability program.
“I’ve seen the joy and excitement Kickability brings participants and their families, and I encourage any person between five and 17 living with a disability to consider signing up. They’ll join a strong and inclusive community, have fun, and make a bunch of new friends through sport.”
Further information and registration for the Pittwater Tiger’s Kickability program can be found at pittwatertigers.com.au