Living with autism and ADHD can lead to feelings of isolation, especially when compounded by bullying at school. For 17-year-old Peter Taylor, this was a harsh reality until he connected with the Keilor Football Club in Melbourne’s northwest, transforming his life.
Despite not playing the game, Peter has become a vital part of the club, affectionately dubbed the “cookie man” for his unique role. He expressed a strong sense of belonging, saying, “I feel like I’m part of the team. I feel like I’m part of the extended family.”
Peter’s journey hasn’t been easy. He left school at 13, descending into a deep depression and losing his motivation to engage with life. His father, Malcolm, described those dark times, stating, “He didn’t even want to get out of bed. It was like he was dead inside.”
Everything changed seven years ago when Peter’s cousin invited the family to a Keilor match. What was assumed to be a regular outing turned into a life-altering experience. The club, led by Mick McGuane—a former Collingwood premiership player—welcomed Peter, nurturing him not just as a spectator but as an integral part of the team. McGuane recognised Peter’s potential and mentored him, helping him find his place within the club.
Peter has taken on the responsibility of selecting and rewarding the top three players each week with packets of his mother’s homemade biscuits—a tradition that has become beloved within the club. He dedicates his Saturdays from early morning to evening, joyfully distributing his cookies, while also feeling a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility.
This weekly ritual signifies much more than a simple snack; it’s a testament to Peter’s inclusion and a source of pride for him and his family. McGuane observed the positive impact of this role, noting, “It means the world to him.”
Peter’s experience at Keilor Football Club illustrates the profound importance of community and acceptance. He likened it to the feeling of being understood, saying, “Like a good book. They’ve read me, understood me… knew how to get me out of my shell.” This support has not only helped him bloom but has also changed the trajectory of his life.
In this way, Peter’s story serves as a reminder of the impact of camaraderie and acceptance in overcoming personal challenges, highlighting how a sense of belonging can be a catalyst for transformation.