Through the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Sports Programs, the Els for Autism® staff strive to spread autism awareness within our communities. By educating professionals in the field of sports and recreation how to teach people with autism, Els for Autism® is changing the culture of sports and recreation. People with autism are beginning to feel welcomed and included to participate in a recreation activity, go to public places, even take lessons or group classes with their local sports professionals. We believe recreation, specifically sports, can be an effective supplemental therapy for individuals with autism. Learn more by contacting our Recreations Services Manager Greg Connors at Greg.Connors@ElsForAutism.org.
Ernie Els #GameON Autism Sports Partner and Scholarship Funder:
Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf
The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf program is infused with evidence-based practices for teaching golf to people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Participants learn golf skills while practicing specific autism learning concepts, including communication, emotional regulation, motor, and social skills. The goal of the program is for participants to achieve their individual golf successes, build confidence and self-esteem, in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment.
Interested in bringing this program to your community? The Els for Autism Foundation® offers various opportunities to become an Official Program Provider. Learn how golf can help people with ASD and the best practices for teaching golf skills to these individuals.
Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf Partner:
Ernie Els #GameON Autism Tennis
The tennis program aims to extend the reach of the ErnieEls #GameON Autism Sports Program to provide more sports and fitness opportunities for individuals with autism. The sport of tennis teaches skills that place a greater emphasis on movement, footwork, and reaction to the ball, further training cardiovascular strength.
The Foundation offers various opportunities to become an Official Program Provider. Learn how tennis can help people with ASD and the best practices for teaching tennis skills to these individuals.
Ernie Els #GameON Autism Fitness
Our team is excited to announce the expansion of the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Sports Programs with the addition of the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Fitness Program. This program will offer a package of small-group fitness classes (usually 8-9 weeks, 2 times per week) for ages 15 and up.
Participants will improve their strength and conditioning by learning to use a complement of basic equipment and core exercises. Emphasis will be placed on developing bodily and kinesthetic awareness, development of improved fine and gross motor skills, as well as a basic understanding of body weight, momentum, and proprioception.
Stay tuned for the official rollout of this new program!