Young Adelaide fan Nash Holmes has gone from bashful to brave, with the support of the Crows Inclusive Academy.
The six-year-old has joined the unique football program, which provides an opportunity for young people with a disability to learn new skills and make new friends in a supportive environment, under the guidance of Crows footballers.
His mother, Brooke, said it was amazing to see her shy son embrace the Academy.
“He is very shy and is often nervous to do new things around new people and things like that,” Brooke said.
“I thought he might not even participate and the best we might get is just coming out and watching but he is loving it and not even looking for me, which was amazing.
“He lives and breathes football and loves the Crows – this is his dream, so he is just so happy to be here.”
Adelaide’s AFL and AFLW stars have helped Nash build up his football skills as well as his confidence.
“He loves kicking and is really good at that, but his handballing has really improved,” Brooke said.
“I noticed that he is touching the ball on the ground, like he is bouncing, he’s never done any of that stuff but he has been picking it up fast.
“I watch him jump around and be silly, but he can concentrate because it is something he loves, and the kids feel more comfortable because they can join in or take a break when they need.
“He really liked Rory Laird and built a bit of a connection with him, but the players are all so kind and do a great job of making sure the kids are comfortable.
“I noticed last week he was tackling on the bags and the players were so encouraging, and you could see his confidence lifting every time.”
His time with the Academy has been such a success, Brooke is now looking at enrolling him at their local AusKick centre.
“He hasn’t done anything yet because he has been so shy and nervous around people, but he’s really coming into his own with football,” Brooke said.
“He has been practicing his skills at home and after being here with the players and other kids, you can see him become surer of himself.
“It has been just a wonderful opportunity for him.”
The Crows Inclusive Academy is run by the Adelaide Crows Foundation, with support from Variety: The Children’s Charity.
