Adelaide players welcomed a new face at training this week, as part of the partnership between Variety and the Crows, with 15-year-old Kye joining the team ahead of Showdown 59.

Living with Autism and ADHD, Kye can find social situations challenging, but physical activity is where he feels most at home.

As a result, football has become a big part of Kye's life, and a Variety scholarship has helped make that possible by covering his fees, uniform, equipment, training and clinics.

Variety and the Crows have also helped to provide a special sporting experience for him on Friday night, when he takes on the role of game day mascot and leads the team through the banner at Adelaide Oval. He will also lead the coin toss and present the Variety Showdown Medal to the player voted best on field.

Variety supports South Australian kids and families who are facing challenges through sickness, disadvantage or living with disability.

The Showdown partnership, which has been in place since 2018, supports the work of Variety as well as positively impacting the Crows’ community programs.

The partnership allows an additional 4,000 SA students from disadvantaged learning environments to participate in the Open Parachute program, which focuses on improving child and youth mental health. 

Variety SA CEO Mark McGill said Kye is a proud Variety scholarship recipient, recognised for his talent in football.

“Kye is the only footballer among all 72 members of this year's scholarship program," McGill said.

“The Variety scholarship gives Kye the opportunity to reach his full potential on the field, and Friday night will be a real highlight in his emerging football career as he takes on the role of Junior Mascot, leads the coin toss, and presents the Variety medal.”

Kye’s mum Amanda said Kye has had enormous growth in his sports and within himself.

“This grant has absolutely helped Kye achieve amazing things, and we will be forever grateful for the opportunities Variety has provided him with," she said.

Variety scholarships support children who are living with a disability, chronic illness, or financial hardship to follow their passions and reach the next stage of their development.