Families Have a Ball at Our 2026 Autism in Cricket Come and Try Session
Our biggest year yet
Rain may have been on the radar, but the wet weather stayed away from the WACA Ground for this year’s Autism in Cricket Come and Try Session – making it a pitch-perfect morning of cricketing fun for more families than ever before.
Over 240 participants of all ages signed up to give cricket a go, proving that inclusive sports and the community connection that comes with taking part are something to get excited about!
Getting set for the session
It was wonderful to welcome both returning and new families to the WACA Ground on the day, where they were greeted by Autism Association of WA and WA Cricket staff, some legendary State cricket players, and representatives from our Endorsed Inclusive Clubs – plus Perth Scorchers mascots Blaze and Amber – all ready to support participants to build their cricket skills and have a ball at the same time.
The session started off with a warm-up of free play: from bean bag tossing and hula hooping, to bowling and batting practice to get into the swing of things.
Then it was time for a welcome from our Autism in Cricket team, who introduced the day’s activities and guided families through what to expect using our Come and Try visual story. We also heard some inspiring words from Alex, who was first introduced to cricket through the Autism in Cricket program and now proudly plays for the WA A-Grade ICL team, showing just how far a love of cricket can take you.
An action-packed day
Before getting the supported sports underway, participants were put into goal-based groups ensuring everyone could get involved in their own way. Groups played different games to build on their cricketing skills as well as their motor skills, social skills and more.
During the day, families also had the chance to talk to our Endorsed Inclusive Clubs about linking up with their local cricketing community ahead of the new season – either as a player or in another club role, with a range of ways to get involved.
The cricket activities and games continued right through to the end of the session, before each child headed home with a goody bag, a smile on their face, and hopefully a newfound love of the game.
Stories in the spotlight
It was fantastic to see all attendees having such a great time at the Autism in Cricket Come and Try Session, and talking to families and club representatives to hear about the positive impact the Autism in Cricket program has had both on and off the pitch.
Participant Beau, who plays for Applecross Cricket Club, even had the opportunity to share his cricket journey on camera when ABC, Channel 9 and Channel 10 joined us to document the day and hear about all the fun being had on the field.
Check out our coverage and see if you can spot yourself on screen if you joined us for the session!
Coming together
Thank you to each participant, family, and volunteer who made the session such a success; and to the WA Cricket Foundation for making this annual event possible.
We would also like to thank all of the Endorsed Inclusive Clubs who have joined the Autism in Cricket program to date, supporting families to get connected with cricket on Come and Try Day and all year round.
If you would like to join us for next year’s session, be sure to join our mailing list and you will be the first to know when registrations open.
What's next for the cricket season
Together with the Autism in Cricket Come and Try Session’s newfound and long-term cricket fans – and those linked up with the Autism in Cricket program and their local Endorsed Inclusive Clubs – we are looking ahead at a big sporting season.
There are so many ways to get involved, and our Autism in Cricket team is here to support you to join your local club, your way. Follow the link below to get started.
You can also check out our range of cricket resources to learn more about the game or get ready for the upcoming season.
Photos from the day
2026 Autism in Cricket Come and Try Session
Join our Autism in Cricket Facebook group to view the full gallery!
