The Orlovsky family attended the Eagles Autism Foundation’s All Abilities Clinic at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on April 8, bringing their son Madden, who has autism, to participate in the event. Tiffany Orlovsky, wife of former NFL quarterback and current ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky, said the experience allowed Madden to enjoy himself and feel comfortable among his peers.
The clinic was designed for children with autism and other abilities to engage in interactive activities. The event aimed to provide a supportive environment where participants could be themselves without feeling pressure to fit in. “So that night was about, not just him, but all the kids that were there and that let them just feel comfortable within their skin and be themselves and have fun,” Tiffany said.
Before attending the main event at Lincoln Financial Field, the Orlovskys toured the practice facility with Tiffany’s parents. They viewed displays such as the new Lombardi Trophy exhibit before heading over for a series of hands-on science and technology activities. According to Eagles Autism Foundation Executive Director Ryan Hammond: “It’s not just local families; it’s families that are coming into Philadelphia for this because nothing else like this exists where they live. I think that’s what’s so important, not only are we raising millions of dollars, but our commitment to inclusion is really unmatched.”
Participants engaged with four interactive stations featuring geospatial technology by Cesium, 3-D printing with Create Access, Ozobots robots, magnetic race cars by Bentley Systems, coloring activities, magnatiles building sets, keychain coding projects—and more—all designed for various ages and interests.
Madden especially enjoyed seeing his artwork displayed on a large poster board during one activity. “He got very, very excited about that,” Tiffany said. She described how well-paced each session was: “It was just so well-run because everything was just like 20 minutes… It just ran really well and perfectly.” Afterward Madden received recognition from ESPN on World Autism Acceptance Day along with gifts from the Eagles Autism Foundation.
The Philadelphia Eagles operate as a professional American football team based in Pennsylvania according to their official website. The team entered the National Football League (NFL) in 1933 according to their official website. The organization offers games as well as news coverage and fan engagement opportunities according to their official website, extending its influence nationally through media coverage and merchandising according to their official website.
