The historic WACA Ground will once again open its gates to more than 200 children with Autism, as the WA Cricket Foundation partners with the Autism Association of Western Australia to deliver the annual Cricket Come and Try event.<\/p>\n
For many of the participants, it will be their very first taste of cricket.<\/p>\n
WA Cricket Community Cricket General Manager, Jo Davies said:<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are so proud to be able to partner with the Autism Association of WA for a seventh season, and bring this Come and Try Session to life, once again.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo be able to create such a safe and inclusive environment for children of all abilities and their families to come together to have fun through the Autism in Cricket Program is so important to us and continues our commitment to ensuring we are creating a sport where everyone is welcome.\u201d<\/p>\n
WA Cricket stars Chloe Piparo, Amy Edgar, Zoe Britcliffe, Keaton Critchell and Baxter Holt will be on hand to meet the children, share their knowledge, and help them enjoy the experience throughout the morning.<\/p>\n
Now in its seventh year, the Autism in Cricket Program provides a safe and encouraging environment where children can learn new skills, make friends, and have fun. The Come and Try session is supported by Autism Association of WA specialists, ensuring inclusive strategies are in place for every participant.<\/p>\n
Adam Gilchrist, Autism in Cricket Ambassador said:<\/p>\n
\u201cThe best part of a club and any sporting club is the sense of belonging; it\u2019s a great way to forge relationships and friendships. It\u2019s life changing. Not just for the child but the siblings and families as they have the opportunity to feel accepted in the broader community, like everyone else.<\/p>\n
Gilchrist continued:\u00a0\u201cIt\u2019s always great to see the look on the faces of the kids and parents, thanks to the opportunity this program provides, and I feel honoured to be the Ambassador for the program.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Come and Try Session is such a fantastic event for kids of all ages and abilities to have the chance to walk onto The WACA Ground and showcase that cricket really is a sport for everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
The program extends beyond the event, with WA Cricket and Autism Association staff working alongside families and local clubs throughout the season to foster inclusive environments and provide ongoing support. Following last year\u2019s session, more than 40 children went on to register to play cricket in the 2024\u201325 season.<\/p>\n
Endorsed clubs also receive free specialist training, access to resources, and ongoing guidance to better support players with Autism. In 2024, 12 endorsed clubs across WA supported 93 registered players through the ICL and Star Blast programs.<\/p>\n
Mathew Johnson, Executive Manager of School Age Therapy Services, Autism Association of WA added:<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Autism in Cricket Program and Come and Try Session we host annually, opens up opportunities for children with Autism who may not have felt included in their community, gives them the chance to be part of a club which has the skills and knowledge to support them in the way they need.”<\/p>\n
For more information about the Autism in Cricket program, visit www.autismincricket.com.au<\/a><\/p>\n