EXAMPLE

Joel’s Journey – Joining His Local Rugby Club with Support

“They didn’t just make room for Joel—they made him part of the team.”

Joel is a 24 year old man with an intellectual disability and high social anxiety. For years, he loved watching rugby from the sidelines but never believed he could play

His local club in regional New South Wales changed by taking practical, person-centred steps to help him feel included.

The Support Joel Was Given:

• A quiet introduction: Before his first session, Joel visited the club after hours with his dad and a committee member to meet the coach without the noise of training. This helped reduce his anxiety and gave him a chance to ask questions in a calm setting.
• A flexible role: Joel began as the water runner, helping during drills and getting used to being on the field. Over time, he joined in simple passing games and warm-ups at his own pace.
• Visual guidance: The coach used a visual schedule with icons to show the training plan (e.g. warmup, skills, break, game). This helped Joel prepare and feel more in control.
• Buddy system: Joel was paired with a younger player who explained drills and supported him with transitions. This peer support helped Joel build trust and feel like one of the team.
• Respectful coaching: The coach used clear, calm instructions and gave Joel time to respond. Feedback focused on effort, not outcome: “Great pass, Joel! I love how you stayed focused.”
• Parent partnership: The club checked in regularly with Joel’s family to adapt his participation and ensure he felt safe and valued.

The Outcome:

• Joel now trains weekly and plays short halves in friendly games.
• His anxiety has decreased significantly, and his confidence has grown, both at the club and at home.
• He has made genuine friendships, and his teammates celebrate his involvement as a win for the whole club.

“Joel says the club is the first place he felt fully accepted. He wears his jersey everywhere. They didn’t just include him, they respected him.” Joel’s mum

We hope the tips in this module will help you try a sporting club.