Local athletes got their opportunity to play under the bright lights of Queensland Country Bank Stadium recently, as the Townsville Blackhawks and Mackay Cutters faced off for the inaugural Endeavour Foundation All Abilities Cup.
After weeks of training, the teams took to the field ahead of the North Queensland Cowboys v Penrith Panthers NRL fixture on Friday, June 16, the brilliant showcase of all abilities footy catching the eyes of players like Nathan Cleary and Mavrik Geyer who were all too happy to share some pointers.
The Mackay Cutters ended the game as victors, becoming the first team to have their name added to the perpetual trophy.
Cutters player Ryleigh Little celebrated his 14th birthday the day before the game and celebrated in style.
"He's been so excited that not only was he able to play, but he got to watch the Cowboys win with his dad," said Ryleigh’s mum Suzi Little.
"I don't think the smile has left his face, and Ryleigh is not a very touchy-feely kid, but he keeps coming up and hugging us and he's like, 'thank you', just thanking us for being able to do that with him.”
Ms Little said Ryleigh experiences level two autism, sensory processing disorder and anxiety disorder.
"For Ryleigh, his autism presents socially and emotionally,” she said.
“He never does well in a social situation, especially with lots of people, and that's something that's definitely changed with all abilities."
After struggling to maintain eye contact and playing as an individual when he was first introduced to the program, Rhiley has improved both skills to become the ultimate team player.
Ms Little said much of that attitude could be attributed to local rugby league royalty Martin Bella, who coached the players with respect and dignity.
"A lot of people will treat someone with a disability like a little child or they'll talk at them, not to them, but Marty will talk to them, and he holds them accountable for their behaviour," Ms Little said.
"He obviously praises their successes, but if they're doing the wrong thing, he will come down to them and he'll make them understand and realise that what they're doing isn't on.
"They get to learn and grow in that kind of environment where us everyday people, we get that, but our people with disabilities don't normally."
Congratulations to everyone involved!
The Mackay Cutters won the inaugural Endeavour Foundation All Abilities Cup in Townsville. Photo supplied: Mackay All Abilities Rugby League
Ryleigh Little and Robert Pethebridge after Mackay's win. Photo supplied: QRL
Penrith Panthers players Nathan Cleary and Mavrik Geyer watched on and interacted with the two teams. Photo supplied: Penrith Panthers
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