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Club rep encourages autistic fans to attend games

"For autistic people, it's not just a case of coming to the football, we pick up every sense in the background."

A man with autism is using his passion for his local football team to help others enjoy matchdays.

Ross Mattinson represents all Carlisle United’s autistic fans within the Carlisle Utd EDI (equality, diversity and inclusion) group.

The 23-year-old is always a visible presence in the fan zone and will be joining the club on their games this season, speaking to fans and answering their questions about autism.

Ross's dad Craig said: "Having autism, you're always recognised as having differences, but being a football fan and a part of a club, you're the same."

The BBC visited Ross in the fan zone before kick-off at the first match on home soil, which saw Carlisle take a 1-0 victory in the Cumbrian derby against Barrow.

Video produced by Alex Challies.

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24 August 2024

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