For Kevin and Jess Smart, football became more than a passion, it became the foundation for something deeply personal.
After discovering their eldest son was autistic, the couple experienced firsthand how difficult it could be to find a sporting environment that catered to different needs, especially while balancing participation in mainstream programs.
That experience sparked an idea that would eventually grow into the Autism Spectrum Disorder Academy at Hoppers Crossing Soccer Club, a program built on participation, belonging, and understanding.
“We wanted to create something where kids could just come together, no matter their abilities or individual needs.”
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What began with just two or three regular participants has now grown into a thriving community program entering its sixth year in 2026, supported strongly by the club and shaped by lived experience and football knowledge.
“My husband has been at Hoppers for a very long time so that was the club we felt comfortable at,” Jess said.
“They trusted us with the program and let us have free reign to build it at Hoppers as the flagship club.”
With Kevin’s background in football as a long-time player, junior coach and academy lead, and Jess’ studies in neurodivergence, the program was designed with both football development and social growth in mind.
“We wanted to put a program in place that not only helped them with their football but also their social skills and things they could adapt that worked for them,” Jess explained.
The early sessions were intentionally run on Saturday mornings, when the club was quieter, helping reduce sensory triggers and create a calmer environment for participants.
As the program grew, so did its reputation and the pair saw the program grow by word of mouth within the autism and wider community.
“Parents started telling other parents Hoppers has a great program, why don’t you take your kids down there, they know what they are doing and they are really."