A first of its kind initiative in Malta is reshaping how children with neuro-divergent conditions engage with sport.
Obstacle Course Academy (OCA), located in the natural surroundings of Mrieħel, has launched an inclusive programme specifically designed for children on the autism spectrum and with other neuro-development needs.
The programme is the result of collaboration between OCA and The Sensory Space Clinic, a spokesperson for the academy told The Malta Independent on Sunday. Together, they have created a training pathway that focuses on the unique requirements of each child through one-to-one sessions, gradually guiding participants into small groups and eventually into larger team settings. This initiative marks a significant step forward for inclusive sport in Malta, offering not only physical training but also a sense of belonging and community for children who are too often excluded from traditional sporting environments.
The concept behind the programme emerged after discussions with several parents, many of whom expressed frustration at the lack of sporting options tailored to their children's needs. OCA responded by creating a system that bridges that gap. Representatives from the Academy explained that after conversations with various parents, it became clear that there was a significant lack of structured sporting programmes for children with neuro-divergent conditions. To address this, they began offering Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) on a one-to-one basis, gradually guiding each child into the sport and slowly introducing them to group settings where they could also develop social skills.
OCR is a form of athletic training that involves running, climbing, crawling and navigating physical challenges. At OCA, the natural setting enhances this experience, creating a multi-sensory environment that supports both physical and cognitive development. The terrain and obstacles help children build strength, balance, coordination, and focus in a setting that is calming and immersive.
The programme starts with an individual assessment for each child to determine their needs, abilities and goals. Based on this, coaches plan tailored sessions that balance fun with appropriate challenges. The key developmental areas targeted include gross and fine motor skills, balance, agility, problem-solving, following instructions, socialisation and motor planning. These skills contribute not only to a child's fitness, but also to their overall independence and confidence in daily life, the spokesman said.
As the children progress, they are moved into paired sessions with another child of similar age and ability. When ready, they can join group sessions where they are given extra support by their coaches during the transition. The coach then provides a detailed handover to the group coach to ensure continuity and sensitivity to the child's needs. In some cases, parents are allowed to assist during the session to help children remain focused and engaged. This flexible and individualised approach has proven successful, with many children who began with one-to-one sessions now participating in regular group training.
The Sensory Space Clinic plays a vital role in the programme's success, the spokesman said. Therapists from the clinic not only advise OCA coaches on how to adapt their sessions, but also offer regular workshops and training to ensure coaches are well equipped to support each child. According to OCA, this partnership is ideal because OCR complements occupational therapy by promoting independence through physical activity. The programme provides a slightly more challenging experience in a natural environment, which helps children build confidence. The collaborative effort between the academy and the clinic ensures that each child's experience is not only physically beneficial, but also emotionally safe and developmentally appropriate.
The results speak for themselves, the spokesman said, with several parents sharing their own personal testimonials about how the programme has positively affected their children.
One parent, Vneita, wrote: "I want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to coach Charlie for the incredible impact he has had on our son's life. As a parent of a child with special needs, finding someone who not only understands but connects on a personal level is truly rare - and coach Charlie, has truly been a champion in our son's life."
Another parent, Christina Grima, described how her son, who previously had no interest in sports, now eagerly looks forward to his sessions, thanks to the patience and dedication of his coach.
One particularly moving account came from the parent of Nathan, a child who initially struggled to adapt to the training environment. "We started attending OCA one-to-one sessions with coach Charlie from last November, and till today it's been a complete change," the parent shared. "At the beginning it was a big struggle full of tantrums, hitting and kicking. But with coach Charlie's determination, today - seven months later - Nathan is so looking forward to attending his session. He runs all the way into the Academy and starts his well-prepared tasks with no hassle whatsoever. He follows his instructions easily and really enjoys himself. Coach Charlie is really down-to-earth and makes sure that the sessions meet Nathan's needs in a very enjoyable way. Can't be more happy for having him as Nathan's coach."
These personal stories highlight the programme's impact not only on the children, but also on families who have long searched for inclusive environments where their children could thrive. The sense of acceptance and belonging that comes from participating in a sport alongside peers is a key part of the programme's success. OCA noted that many children from the one-to-one sessions have successfully joined larger groups and that parents are extremely pleased that their children are finally accepted in a sporting community and feel part of a team.
Obstacle Course Academy's inclusive programme is setting a new standard for how sports training can be adapted to serve children with diverse needs. Rather than requiring children to fit into rigid systems, the Academy has created a flexible, responsive model that meets children where they are and builds them up with care, structure and support. The result is not just physical development, but growth in confidence, independence and emotional wellbeing. OCA's approach demonstrates that with the right partnerships and a commitment to inclusion, sport can be a powerful force for transformation and connection.
As Malta continues to explore inclusive practices in education, sport, and beyond, OCA's programme stands out as a benchmark. It is not just a training ground for strength and agility - it is a space where children with different needs are seen, supported and celebrated. For many families, it represents a long-awaited opportunity for their children to be part of something meaningful. And for the children themselves, it's a chance to thrive - one obstacle at a time.