OU’s Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services partners with OU Athletics on inclusive recreation program

For the past several weeks, Saturday mornings at Oakland University’s Recreation Center have been abuzz with the sounds of children playing soccer. 

Provided by Oakland University’s Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES), in partnership with Oakland University Athletics, the program teaches children on the autism spectrum the game of soccer through simple drills, with guidance from OUCARES facilitators and OU soccer players. 

It’s one of many opportunities OUCARES offers for individuals and families impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder, a group of developmental disabilities that can cause social, communication and behavioral challenges.

“Our mission is to improve the quality of life of individuals impacted by autism through offering quality and comprehensive programs across the lifespan,” said OUCARES Director Alicia Garcia. “Our recreation programs give individuals impacted by autism the opportunity to develop many different skills, such as their self-confidence and sportsmanship. Having the connection with OU athletic teams helps promote a sense of community and acceptance.”

The Saturday indoor soccer program is for children ages 4-9 and offers participants the chance to learn a sport while strengthening motor skills, following directions, interacting with peers and having fun in a supportive environment. 

“It’s been fantastic working with the children,” said Andrew Darakdjian, a freshman soccer player majoring in biology. “Giving back to the community is such a great thing – and we all benefit from it, both the kids and us.”

Garcia agrees that the program is a win-win for OUCARES participants and the student-athletes, who can help spread the message of autism acceptance beyond OU’s campus.

“They will take that knowledge wherever they go, regardless of the educational field they’re in,” she reflected. “They will graduate and get jobs and be more open to those on the autism spectrum, which ultimately helps make the world a more inclusive and welcoming place.” 

During the program, the soccer players help guide participants through various activities, including passing and shooting the ball. 

“Our main goal is just to keep them engaged,” said Carson Ballagh, a freshman soccer player from Lake Orion. “If they start to lose interest or kick the ball really far away, we help get them back on track and encourage them to get through the activity.”

The children also are cheered on by their parents, siblings and peer buddies, along with OUCARES program facilitators Nicki Patsarikas and Karissa Ritthaler.

“Seeing the kids when they first start out, and then coming back each session, we get to see the improvements they make,” said Ritthaler. “When we teach them something, they’re having so much fun learning it – they remember the different routines and activities.”

Soccer player Christian Rossi also sees the children making strides in their athletic and social skills.

“I think a lot of them are getting the hang of it, getting better at passing and shooting,” he said. “They’re starting to really get along well with each other and having fun together, and that’s great to see.”

OUCARES programs are made possible in part by generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

For more information about the Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES), visit oakland.edu/oucares or call (248) 370-2424.