Nick Hurst is the most senior player in Midland’s football team. He is known as “the big guy” because he is the biggest player on the team, which makes him a formidable force both on the field and in the locker room. (This story was first published in November 2016.)
But that is not the only thing that sets Nick apart. Nick is autistic.
Nick Hurst, a Midland football player with autism
Karen Hurst, Nick’s mother, says the family never let autism stand in the way of what Nick could achieve. All three of her children are autistic.
Karen says she is happy with her trio and at peace, and accepts each of them exactly as they are. In her eyes, each of them is perfect.
She remembers the early days, when Nick found his surroundings overwhelming and social and emotional situations hard to navigate.
Nick also found it hard to pick up new skills and build new relationships at the same pace as his peers. Looking for something that worked for him, Nick decided to join a football team.
Nick says he fell in love with the game from the very beginning. His coach, TJ Pugh, praises Nick’s passion for the game and says his growth has been remarkable.
Nick’s teammates have been inspired by him and admire the confident way he approaches life, his mother Karen told AutisMag.
With his new-found confidence and self-awareness, Nick has earned his driver’s licence and landed a part-time job in his local area.
Karen added that she is proud to see her son grow into a responsible young man.
Although Midland didn’t win this season, football has had a great impact on Nick, a result the family believes is far better than a simple win or loss.
There’s more to this than just getting in between these lines
his coach, Pugh, commented.
Nick’s story is a reminder of what can happen when an autistic young person finds something they love. A shared passion like sport can be a doorway to friendship, confidence and belonging.
I am Ash and I celebrate Neurodiversity! Growing up with an elder brother with severe Autism was tough – but it has also taught me essential life lessons. I don’t believe that people with Autism are necessarily or have any disorder (except in extreme cases). They are just different! And that is something to be proud of! I am passionate about helping other families who may have Autism conditions in their family. So please reach out and drop me a note. I will be glad to help 🙂
