For many young people, playing junior football is a time to learn new skills, make friends and have experiences which turn into lifelong memories. 

This can be challenging for young people with an intellectual disability, but the Crows Inclusive Academy has brought together new football friends Mario and Curtis. 

The Crows Inclusive Academy is a development program for young people with a disability to discover their passion for AFL football and train alongside their Crows heroes, thanks to support from Variety – The Children’s Charity. 

The program gives athletes the opportunity to be part of a team, with each member presented with a Crows Academy uniform and training under the guidance of experienced coaches, Kudos Services occupational therapists and the AFL and AFLW players to provide a meaningful experience for each child.

Curtis’ mum Melissa said Curtis and Mario instantly hit it off.

“Curtis is my social butterfly. He loves everyone and makes friends with anyone,” Melissa said.

“When he sees so many children, he just lights up and the Academy has given him the opportunity to go out there, talk to everyone and not be rejected because people understand. 

“Mario was the one he kept talking about and for him to fixate on another kid means the world because I know it will be a lasting friendship.

“COVID made it tricky to catch up, but he’d ask every school holidays if he could see Mario now.

 “They are both learning new things together and they can teach the other person how to be friends.” 

Melissa said she was grateful for the support she has received from Variety – The Children’s Charity and the Adelaide Crows Foundation over the years. 

“Before COVID we used to attend the Variety Easter at the Zoo and their Christmas, so Variety has done a lot for him,” Melissa said. 

“Without them he wouldn’t have half of what he’s got. 

“This Academy has meant that Curtis is able to get out, be independent and share the love that he has for everyone.” 

Thanks to Variety’s ongoing support, Curtis, Mario and their Academy teammates played an important role at Showdown 51 when they took to the field for the Guard of Honour. 

Like many of the young athletes, this was the first time Curtis would attend an AFL game experience.

For Curtis, it was just another opportunity to spend time with his new friend. 

“He is my best friend and we have fun,” Curtis said.  

“We like kicking the ball to each other and we like having fun.” 

The Crows Inclusive Academy is proudly supported by Variety – The Children’s Charity.