FOR Joshua James’ family, just seeing him play soccer is enough to bring a smile to their faces.
Now, they’re excited to travel to Adelaide to watch him represent WA at the Special Olympics Australia National Games in Adelaide next month.
James has ADHD and verbal dyspraxia and does not speak much, but his mother Beatriz said playing soccer helped him develop his communication skills.
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READ NOW“He loves playing, it’s a great way to help him with his communication skills and he’s got a lot of energy to burn,” she said.
James initially began playing for Lynwood United before getting involved with Football West’s Equal Footingball league.
From there, he was selected to play in the state games in May last year, which led to his recent call-up for the state team.
His mother said watching him play and continue to progress every week meant so much to the family.
“It’s such a proud moment to watch him play and have a go. When he scores a goal, everyone knows about it, he’s so excited,” she said.
Help people with an intellectual disability to achieve their life potential through sport and donate to Special Olympics Australia by visiting specialolympics.com.au/donate.
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