Waterford GAA, in partnership with Deise Og, Waterford Sports Partnership and WASSA (Waterford Autism Social & Sports Action) are hosting a first ever camp for children with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) at Walsh Park this week.
This is the very first camp of it's kind hosted by Waterford GAA, who say they are delighted with the levels of response.
The camp is running for two hours a day for three days, having started on Tuesday August 17th.
Community Sports Development Officer with Waterford Sports Partnership, Rachel Sinnott says it's been a fantastic experience for all involved:
"Ourselves, Waterford GAA and WASSA have partnered together to create a camp for children with autism for three days. We started yesterday (Tuesday) for two hours a day and it's running up until Thursday. We had a fantastic day so far, spirits are still high and everyone is loving it and we're looking forward to the same again for the rest of the week."
Great fun at our ASD Cúl Camp in Walsh Park ?? pic.twitter.com/Sds0tNK13I
— Waterford GAA (@WaterfordGAA) August 18, 2021
Rachel says seeing the smiles of kids as they walk out onto the Walsh Park turf for the first time is a wonderful thing.
"A few children came onto the grass yesterday - eyes beaming, couldn't believe it, oh my god - I'm actually standing on the pitch at Walsh Park. A first for some kids, it was great to see. For them to get out and try a few new things, it's brilliant. We've had fun games, they've been picking up hurleys, a bit of football as well - it's been fantastic."
