Strabane girls ‘Kicking for Autism’ around Tyrone
This Saturday, two young Strabane Sigersons club members will embark on an epic challenge to kick a point at all 51 clubs in their native Co. Tyrone to raise awareness of autism.
‘Kicking for Autism’ will see Megan Skeffington and Tori Crawford start off at neighbours Owen Roes at 6am and make their way around the entire Red Hand County, visiting every football and hurling ground as well as the Tyrone GAA Centre at Garvaghy, before finishing back at the Sigersons club around 7pm.
The campaign has gained momentum in recent weeks with GAA figures Peter Canavan, Jim McGuinness, Conor Laverty and Michael Murphy among those lending their support
Martin Skeffington, Megan’s father commented: “When our club started Games For ALL earlier in the year it was apparent to us that locally there were a number of families who had children with a diagnosis of autism.
“Indeed, latest statistics suggest over 35,000 of the population in the North have been diagnosed with autism, translating to 1 in 20 children or 5.25 per cent of 0–14-year-olds.”
For Damian Crawford, Tori’s father, the cause is a personal one: “Tori’s younger brother is autistic. As a family we know how much there is to learn about autism and how important it is to feel supported.
“That’s why Martin and I organised Kicking for Autism. We wanted to raise awareness of autism and to demonstrate support to families where a member has an autism diagnosis, in Strabane and across the North. Everyone is welcome to join the girls on the day at any of the clubs.”
Martin concluded: “We are asking everyone to consider a donation to the girls, to recognise their efforts. ALL funds raised will be used to raise awareness of autism and to support Autism NI in their work.”
To donate to ‘Kicking for Autism’, click the link below
