The ASP AUthletics is back! ~ Autism Society Philippines

The Autism Society Philippines, the nation’s strongest and widest-reaching autism advocacy group is inspiring acceptance, accommodation and appreciation of persons with autism (PWAs), through programs and projects relevant to our growing community of 13,000 members and 100 chapters nationwide – before, during and after the pandemic.

The image shows athletes jogging and people watching them doing jogging in the field.

Authletics at Decathlon poster

In 2020, the Autism Society Philippines took another uncharted step in launching the ASP AUthletics. The program was formally introduced during the Angels Walk for Autism last January 2020. This is a nationwide initiative on 1) wellness through movement; and 2) competitive athlete development for individuals on the autism spectrum. The program promotes well-being, friendship, and achievement; as well as inspires genuine acceptance, accommodation and appreciation in an Autism-OK Philippines.

After being sidelined during the pandemic, ASP will be holding the ASP Authletics again regularly, starting on October 29. To promote autism-friendly spaces among responsible business organizations, we have tapped the Decathlon Tiendesitas as our partner. To inspire volunteerism, we will be having as game marshals members of the student organization of UP SUPER (UP Supporting PWDs through Exercise and Recreation).

What: ASP AUthletics Tournament
When: 29 October 2022, Saturday at 8:30am
Where: Decathlon, L2 Tiendesitas, Ortigas Ave, cor Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Ave, Pasig

EVENT ONE

Takkyu Volley (Team), a sport invented in Japan, is played on a ping pong table where seated athletes play the game by rolling the ball, with wood blocks, under a regulation net. The game is scored like volley ball. Get familiar with this fun but simple game here: http://bit.ly/395qIzZ. The ASP Committee will be the one to assign players to teams. (Caregivers may stand behind the athlete during the game, if needed; but caregiver cannot hold the paddle.)

Elimination system will be announced during the pre-tournament orientation, after teams are formed, based on registration. Each member of the winning team will get medals. All participants will get a certificate.

EVENT TWO

Obstacle Course Race (Individual) involves an athlete navigating through a series of challenging physical obstacles, while being timed. It will include running, jumping, hopping and balancing, testing one's speed, endurance and agility.

Please watch here for a demo of the obstacle course and Takkyu Volley.

Categories
Depending on profile of the registered athletes, categories will be based on age and/or assisted/independent.

Medals will go to the individuals with the three best times in each category. All participants will get a certificate.

Who can join
• Interested ASP members may join one or both of the 2 events by signing up for the tournament via the online form below. The submission deadline is October 22 noon.
• As there are only limited slots, regular members will be prioritized • One (1) athlete on the spectrum and one companion per family.
• The ASP Secretariat will confirm the booking via text/call. As we only have slots for 30 pairs, we would like to share the opportunity across as many chapters as possible.
• For cancellations, please communicate at least 48 hours ahead, as a courtesy and to fill up the vacated slots.

What to prepare
• For both player and companion, wear an ASP Angels Walk Shirt or green shirt and a medical-grade face mask.
• Expect to be exposed to the sun with no air conditioning at the event area.
• Bring at least an extra shirt, face towel, cap, or umbrella and your own drinking water.

Health Protocols
• Bring your vaccination cards (we follow Decathlon protocols).
• Do not come with fever, cough, cold, or diarrhea.
• Observe proper social distancing.

How to get there
• Participants must be responsible for their transportation.
• Participants are expected to be at the basketball court of Decathlon Tiendesitas at 8:30am for registration.

What to expect
• When you get to the venue, look for the ASP banner or Cenin Faderogao, who is co-managing the event.
• Chapter leaders or families are expected to manage their group/members, especially during the waiting time.
• No assurance that latecomers can be accommodated.
• An online pre-tournament orientation will be held for all participants to clarify event mechanics and other details.

0830H Registration/waiver and release of name tags (TBD)
Warm-Up Dance
0900H ASP Authletics
1100H Awarding
1130H End of Authletics Event

After the event, everyone is welcome to roam around Decathlon Store and play with their displayed sports items.