For many families, a night out at a sporting event is filled with excitement and anticipation, but for those who have a child with autism, even the thought of being among a large and noisy crowd can evoke feelings of fear and anxiety.
The Newcastle Jets, in association with Major Community partner, Greater Bank, has established a ‘Quiet Room’ at McDonald Jones Stadium that will enable people on the autism spectrum the chance to enjoy a live sporting event in a safe and comfortable environment.
The Quiet Room was launched at the Newcastle Jets’ A-League Men’s season opener against Perth Glory at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday 15 October, hosting 55 students, parents, carers and staff from Aspect Hunter School.
Greater Charitable Foundation partner, Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), worked with the club to design and set up the Quiet Room that features reduced sensory input, including noise, light and sometimes smells, where people feel safe and supported to be authentically themselves.
Aspect Hunter School Principal, Lara Cheney, said that sporting events featuring large crowds and loud noises can be overwhelming for a person on the spectrum.
“Attending a live event is something many sporting fans take for granted. We have a number of students who love the Newcastle Jets, but the prospect of them and their families going to a game are usually remote given the sensory overload that can be presented,” Ms Cheney said.
“The Quiet Room provides a space where a person on the autism spectrum or other sensory issues can enjoy the experience of a live event but in a far more controlled and safer environment. It not only reduces their stress and anxiety, but also that of their parents or carers.
“This is a wonderful initiative by the Newcastle Jets and Greater Bank, who have made their match day experience accessible and inclusive for people who otherwise would not have the opportunity to attend a live event.”
Lara Cheney, Aspect Hunter School Principal
The autism friendly Quiet Room will be offered to the Aspect Hunter School on an ongoing basis throughout the 2022/23 season to enable more autism community members to benefit from this fantastic initiative and aim to build confidence and independence from the students to potentially be able to attend in the crowds one day in the future.
Greater Bank Community Engagement Manager, Ingrid Kaczor, said the ‘Quiet Room’ initiative was made possible through their Community Partnership with the Jets.
“Since 2015, Greater Bank has been the Major Community Partner of the Newcastle Jets and in that time we’ve worked closely to connect the club and players with their fans here and the Hunter and beyond,” Ms Kaczor said.
“This initiative is about giving students from Aspect Hunter School, and their families, with the best match day experience possible, without the sensory issues that often prevent them from attending.
“From providing express entry to the ground, to having earmuffs and ‘chill out areas’ to help escape the sensory overload, the experience will provide a welcoming environment and create unforgettable memories for all in attendance.
“Thanks must go to the Newcastle Jets for partnering with Greater Bank to bring this initiative to life.”
Greater Charitable Foundation announced a new three-year partnership with Aspect Hunter School in September 2021 to fund the Work Education and Employment Skills Program, which provides specialised autism-specific support for High School students to assist in their transition from school to employment.
Click here to find out more about the partnership.