Q&A with Mickey Corbett - Cas LDRL Player

Mickey is one of the Tigers Learning Disability Rugby League (LDRL) players and he also discusses how joining the LDRL team has been a big step for him personally.

Q. Mickey tell us a little bit about how you came to be diagnosed with autism?

Well, I got diagnosed quite late, at 17 years old. But when I was younger I had had difficulties working, and I only went to see the doctor when I was older and with my parents pushing me to. A neighbour who had an autistic daughter, suggested I go to CAMHS (The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services), and that helped lead to me getting the diagnosis I needed.

Q. A lot of people don’t understand how difficult autism can make a person’s life: What’s a little thing for you that you might find difficult?

I think a big challenge can be those people in our world that don’t necessarily understand autism. Especially people online and on social media, they’re not aware of autism always and that can make interacting with them difficult.

Q. But you’ve also been a key part of the LDRL team since it’s formation, how has that helped you with some of the challenges that sufferers of autism might face?

It’s helped me get fit! And getting fit for the LD team gives me a goal to work towards. I’ve even started doing my own fitness at home on the treadmill and the like! But it’s also really good socially to just be part of a team, and to stand out as a role model for younger team mates too.

Overall I think it’s a very good environment, and I think if you’re in the area, have an interest in rugby and want to be part of an inclusive team, come give it a go!

Q. Eventually, we’re hoping the LDRL season will get back underway! What was a highlight from last year’s season and what are some of your aims for 2020?

As ever, I just want to try my best and set up as many tries as possible! Last year my highlight was just about working together as a team and running out wearing that Cas badge!

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