Riley and Early Start Australia

Riley is smashing goals his way. 

It’s the bashing and crashing of wheelchairs, and the roughness that Riley loves about wheelchair rugby. 

He was seven when his family took him to a come-and-try day. 

One of the players rolled up in his chair, helped get Riley into one, and he just “took off”. 

“That was it,” says Riley’s mum Amy. “That’s what drew him into it and what’s keeping him there.” 

And he’s good. 

His team took home gold at the junior championships. 

Early Start Australia has been part of Riley’s journey since he became sick before turning two. 

For more than 10 years, the team has helped him build the strength and independence to keep doing what he loves. 

Riley’s physiotherapist, Jack, has used their shared joy of sport to build a strong connection, create engaging activities, and boost his functionality. 

“With Jack, we normally get me moving more so I get more strength in my arms,” Riley says. 

But it’s about much more than rugby. 

“Working with them makes me do stuff my own way and get in and out of the house easily, so I can hang with my friends whenever I want.” 

The team always starts by asking what Riley wants to achieve next. 

They then work together to make it possible through therapy, assistive technology and practical changes around the home. 

Occupational Therapist Eleanor has helped Riley and his family explore ways to make his bathroom more accessible. 

She also works with him on everyday activities, from navigating the house in his wheelchair to becoming more independent in the kitchen. 

Eleanor says, “What's rewarding is just like the little wins of him being really independent in the home, being able to see them feel happy and joyful doing things that they want to do. 

“I was lost to start with,” Amy says. “They came and saw us at the hospital when we were in the thick of it.” 

And Early Start Australia has been by their sides ever since. 

“They have come with us throughout our life and helped us along our journey immensely.”