Summary
Join Anna Kennedy in this inspiring conversation with Melanie Timberlake, UK Disability Coach of the Year 2018 and featured on the influential Luca Said Movers list 2019. Melanie, a full-time school sport coach and volunteer inclusive martial arts and pan disability football coach, shares her incredible journey from office work to becoming a champion for disabled athletes after struggling to find suitable sports clubs for her autistic son Cameron. Discover how Melanie transformed from coaching just 5 children to nearly 30 across three age groups at Risborough Rangers, while battling her own challenges including brain surgery complications and lifelong mental health conditions. Learn about the profound impact that inclusive sports programs have on children with autism and disabilities – from building self-confidence and reducing anxiety to creating vital social networks for both kids and parents. Melanie reveals the ‘secret pill’ of physical activity for mental wellbeing and provides practical guidance for families seeking inclusive sports opportunities in their communities.