Adelaide local soccer club Salisbury United FC is facing scrutiny after abruptly excluding a seven-year-old boy who lives with autism from its team.
The boy’s parents claim the club has failed to provide a clear explanation for the decision and is yet to refund his registration fees.
Angela De Crea decided to sign her son, Zaid De Crea-Sak, up at the club after Football SA recommended it. She also made sure to notify Salisbury United FC about his neurodiversity.
Zaid attended and participated in seven training sessions and was given a club uniform. De Crea mentioned that the initial comments were encouraging, noting she received a message from the team manager praising his performance.
However, the situation changed following an altercation during a training session.
When the family offered additional support for Zaid, the club told them that he was no longer welcome.
“He cried for days, days and days and days, we went through this stage of grieving… it was really sad for him,” De Crea said.
Adding to the family’s frustration, the promised refund of Zaid’s registration fee hasn’t been received three months later.
Salisbury United hasn’t replied to 9News’ interview request, while Football SA answered questions with just a broad statement.
Without referencing any details of what happened, it described the club’s actions as exemplary, saying it was unfortunate the family were unable to work with the club to achieve the desired outcome.
“Realistically the club doesn’t have an understanding of what they have done to Zaid,” Zaid’s father, Birol Sak, said.
“He feels he has done something wrong and we are left to pick up the pieces. It affected his mindset.”
While Angela is now considering legal options, she says she just wants to see Zaid playing the sport he loves.
“Often I hear parents say … team sport isn’t right for kids like ours and I think why not,” she said.
