Dragons RFC is pleased to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day (Sunday, April 2) with a special case study and insight into our Dragons Autistic Support programme…
Morgan Steed joined the Dragons Community team last November - and he has quickly become a favourite around Rodney Parade.
The 24-year-old has autism, dyslexia and dyspraxia and attends CPI Care Day Centre in Newport. This day centre caters for adults with additional needs, supporting service users and helping them learn life skills for day to day living. The aim is to help them with their independence and help them to live with or without supportive living.
It is here that Karen Burgess – Community Inclusion Officer – first met Morgan when she was delivering rugby sessions at the centre.
“I’ve known Morgan for around 18 months. He’s a very chatty sociable person who wants to make a difference in life,” said Karen.
“All he’s wanted to do in life was to be able to work like his mother and father and I asked the question if he wanted to work with me one day a week to get some experience.”
Morgan duly jumped to the chance and, with the backing of his family and Dragons RFC, started working with Karen every Tuesday.
“He’s gone from strength to strength and his confidence has skyrocketed,” added Karen.
“He’s even joined in with the Dragons Walking rugby team with training and he loves being a part of the team.”
Many supporters may have already seen Morgan’s video blogs that have become a not to be missed feature on social media.
“We decided we should document his journey and so Morgan has a weekly blog that goes out on social media with the #SteedsStory hashtag.
“His videos tell what he’s done and what his favourite part of the day was. His wit shines through and it has already generated a bit of a fan base with his social posts hitting thousands of views!”
Reflecting on Morgan’s time with Dragons Community, Karen admits she has been thrilled by his progress.
“I’m so proud of Morgan and encourage him to always be himself,” smiled Karen.
“He is like a shining light who always puts a smile on people’s faces. He’s made new friends and had some amazing experiences that he’ll never forget.
“We all can’t wait so see what happens next in his journey. As Morgan would say - he’s a legend!”
Dragons RFC were pleased to launch a brand-new Autism provision within our Community department in October 2021.
The new provision will take place indoors at Risca Rugby Club for children aged 5-16 every Monday from 4.30pm-5.30pm.
The sessions are run by fully qualified and experienced autism rugby coaches and are filled with fun engaging activities that include mini games and soft play.
There is also sensory equipment available for the children in what was the first autistic rugby provision in Wales.
For further information contact Karen Burgess on karen.burgess@dragonsrugby.wales
He’s gone from strength to strength and his confidence has skyrocketed... He’s even joined in with the Dragons Walking rugby team with training and he loves being a part of the team...
