MEDIA, Pa. (WPVI) — Matt Heavens grew up alongside his brother Mark, who was born with Down syndrome.
Seeing how little access Mark had to athletic opportunities, decades later, Matt created the Media Unified Rugby team, welcoming teenagers and young adults of all abilities to explore this beautiful game.
“I can’t say enough about how much these players mean to me, our coaches, and our organization,” Matt reflected.
The team practices in the fall and spring seasons, drawing a crowd of encouraging friends and family to cheer them on.
“When you leave practice, you’re like walking on air,” Matt said. “When you watch what goes on at practice, players holding their teammates’ hands and getting the support, they’ve really come together as a team.”
Riley Vetter has been with the club for two years: “It’s really nice because they are like family to me, and it’s really fun.”
Frances Williams brings her son, Danny, to practice every week. She is thrilled with the community her family has gained through the sport.
“Access is huge because there’s so many places that Danny can’t go,” Williams said. “It’s maybe too loud, it’s too crowded, there are kids of different abilities. Here, he’s more with his peers.”
The families of these athletes stand together in solidarity, in acceptance, and in love for one another.
“As a special needs parent, being able to support each other in that and we don’t need to explain why my child needs different accommodations. We just all get it,” Williams reflects.
Matt Heavens has created an environment for these athletes to grow and thrive.
“Any sport is difficult for this community to come and play,” Matt said. “It’s a lot of new friends and action. And then it’s a sport they’ve never seen. And the desire, and the willingness to capture the game, they’re incredible.”
To learn more about the Media Unified Program, click here.
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