Kicking goals for the Special Olympics

Share

Share

Two people smiling at the camera
NAB’s Kelli Blundell with her son William.

NAB Senior Analyst Kelli Blundell’s 14-year-old son William has always loved soccer.

Later this year, William has the opportunity of a lifetime – to compete in the Special Olympics National Games in Launceston!

“William was diagnosed with autism at four years of age and has always had a passion for soccer,
whether that’s playing or watching his favourite soccer team,” said Kelli.

“We found an all-abilities club that he has been a member of for over two years now, and this year he was chosen to be a participant in the Special Olympics National Games team. He is very excited, to say the least!”

William has launched himself into the club environment and training for the Special Olympics National Games, which will take place in Launceston in October.

“The team has been training for about six months. He definitely holds his own on the field!”

It’s an environment that’s seen him thrive.

“Soccer and training for the Special Olympics National Games has given him an opportunity to relate to other people who have the same passion as him.”

 

A boy kicks a soccer ball on the oval
William on the soccer field.

“It’s really enabled him to come out of his shell a little and we’re seeing another side to him, which is really pleasing,” Kelli said.

To get to the event in Launceston each competitor needs to raise at least $3,200. It’s no small fee and Kelli said that some of the very special athletes are struggling to raise the funds needed to participate.

That’s where NAB colleagues can help Special Olympics National Games athletes by making a donation to help athletes meet their fundraising target, or by using their NAB volunteering leave to offer support at the National games.

“Since I made my colleagues aware of my son’s situation, I have received many generous donations and I know other NAB colleagues would love to help support the Special Olympics National Games too,” said Kelli.

NAB is the Presenting Partner of the 2022 Special Olympics Australia National Games.  

Community

SEE ALL TOPICS

Media Enquiries

For all media enquiries, please contact the NAB Media Line on 03 7035 5015

Related Articles

  • Indigenous Affairs

NAB and Indigenous Business Australia collaborate to support First Nations businesses

NAB has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Indigenous Business Australia to work together on the design and development of an Indigenous Business Guarantee. 

  • 06.12.2023
  • Time to read 1 min read
  • Indigenous Affairs

NAB partners with DeadlyScience to step up STEM equity for Indigenous learners

NAB launched a new partnership with DeadlyScience, an Indigenous charity organisation with the vision to create better opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People to study Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).

  • 05.12.2023
  • Time to read 2 min read
  • Diversity

“Yep, I did it!”

Diagnosed with autism when he was three, NAB’s Lora Agius’s son Matthew recently cruised the South Pacific after completing Year 12. Lora shares their story as we recognise International Day of People with Disability.

  • 30.11.2023
  • Time to read 3 min read

Quick links

Supporting the community

Find out about NAB’s community grants, volunteering, workplace giving and support for Indigenous success to help create stronger communities.

NAB Ready Together

Find out how NAB is here to support Australians before, during and after natural disasters.