Kids with autism get a football lesson

APPLETON - More than 80 children packed the Xavier High School football field in Appleton Saturday for the sixth annual camp for kids with autism.

The event has brought in youngsters not only from the Fox Valley, but from Minnesota and even Michigan.

Fourteen-year-old Tony Brodhagen of Appleton may not officially be part of the Xavier varsity football team, but Saturday, he was one of the guys, along with 81 other individuals.

From tackling to scoring the winning touchdown, the camp is something kids of all ages look forward to every year.

"What do you like about camp out here?" Brodhagen was asked.

"Learning how to tackle, going for touchdowns on the five yard line," said Brodhagen.

Members of the high school team coach these kids who have autism, a disorder that affects the brain's normal development of social and communication skills.

The Xavier players encourage the campers as they venture through each skill station.

"This is like one of the highlights of the season," said Xavier student Mike Van Abel. "I mean the games are always fun, but this is one of the best things we do, and we all enjoy it."

The Autism Society of the Fox Valley teamed up with Xavier High School six years ago to put on a free football camp for individuals with autism.

Coordinators say this event grows each year, adding about 10 new participants each time they host the camp.

"There are not a lot of events for kids with special needs and it was just an event we came up with to fill the gap," said Autism Society Board Member Bob Olson.

"It's a chance for kids on the spectrum to enjoy other kids, to learn from older kids, high school kids, and sports is a great medium for kids on the spectrum, it really stretches their minds and bodies," explained parent Terry Hoover of New London.

But even though the camp is for the kids, families get a little something out of it as well.

"We often feel somewhat isolated," said Parent Kelly Brodhagen. "Maybe some of the behaviors tend to keep us at home and not out in public so much, but this is a place we can all come and feel welcomed."

And while some may never play under the lights on Friday nights, the camp is an experience they'll never forget.

When Brodhagen was asked whether he would be coming back next year he responded, "Yes I will."

For more information on the event, contact the Autism Society of the Fox Valley at (920) 968-6829.