MVP: Michael’s Victory Players Adaptive Football Training Event

By Paula Green

If you are the parent of a child with special needs, finding opportunities for them to be involved in sports can be a challenge. MVP: Michael's Victory Players Adaptive Football Training Event hopes to bring the love of the game to children with different abilities and medical challenges. The event will be held from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm on Saturday, July 19, at Pine Athletic Complex (PAC), Pine Park, 100 Pine Park Drive in Wexford. Your kids are sure to get a kick out of it.

The event will feature an array of football-themed stations where children can punt, pass, kick, and run the ball, engage in interactive games, and enjoy the spirit of the sport along with their peers and new friends. Held in partnership with Pine-Richland United Youth Football and Cheer and Pine-Richland High School Football, this inclusive event promises to be a memorable experience for all participants.

MVP’s event organizer, Audrey Mackie noted, “It’s all about building confidence, community, and joy through play. Our goal is to create a safe, fun, and empowering environment where every child feels like a true MVP.”

Audrey’s five-year-old son Michael is the inspiration behind the adaptive football training. Although he suffers from some medical ailments, he doesn't let his disabilities prevent him from having fun outdoors.

"Michael was diagnosed with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS), a rare and severe form of intractable epilepsy, along with autism. He is nonverbal and has been navigating complex medical care since he was just 18 months old - including undergoing brain surgery last year. Despite these incredible challenges, Michael radiates pure love, joy, and a spirit that lifts everyone around him. He's the biggest fan of his three siblings, especially his two older brothers when they take the field, and that's why we created The Michael Mackie Project—to provide inclusive, adaptive programs and recreational opportunities for children with disabilities and special needs. Our mission is to ensure that every child—regardless of ability —has access to the typical joys of childhood in a supportive, empowering, and community-focused environment. Our inaugural event, MVP: Michael's Victory Players, is more than adaptive football - it's a celebration of belonging, a space where children like Michael can experience the thrill of participation, the power of inclusion, and the joy of play. We invite families and supporters to be part of something truly special—because every child deserves to feel like an MVP," said Audrey.

"We are happy to welcome children of any age to the event. We aim to include as many children with varying needs and abilities as possible. We are also opening the event to siblings of children with special needs. Like with Michael, there are often limited opportunities for them to participate in something together," Audrey said.

Audrey hopes to build on the football training and add future activities. "We are working with different community partners and are looking towards hosting Adaptive Hiking and Nature, some seasonal celebrations, adaptive art, music, sensory-friendly activities, and community inclusion days. This summer, two programs will be offered at 5:15 pm in June and July at Pine Community Park. Adaptive Outdoor Movement Experience is on Tuesdays, and Adaptive Nature Explorers is on Thursdays," Audrey remarked.

“Although Michael communicates with us in his own unique way, and he does have some restrictions on things he does, he never lets his diagnosis slow him down.  If there is a will, there is a way!  Michael exemplifies that motto,” Audrey added.

In addition to Michael, Audrey and her husband, Patrick, are the parents of Patrick (9), Will (7), and McKenzie (1). They reside in Pine Township. While the event is free, you must pre-register and visit www.themichaelmackieproject.org to reserve your spot!