Autism won't tackle good sport

Josh Muller can’t wait to get on the field for today’s grand final.

Sharyn O'Neill

ROCKHAMPTON’S Josh Muller won’t let his autism get in the way of living life to the fullest.

The 22-year-old holds down a full-time job at Cranston’s Pies and is excited to play in today’s Rockhampton Rugby Union grand finals as he takes on Blackwater as part of the Boars reserve grade team.

Josh says he’s made a lot of friends through the team and loves being out on the field.

“They’re all really good people,” Josh says.

“They’re a really good crowd to hang around with.”

Though he enjoys playing rugby union, off the field Josh loves to watch NRL and is a staunch supporter of the Melbourne Storm.

“My favourite players are Billy Slater, Cameron Smith and Ryan Hoffman,” Josh said.

Josh was given the chance to meet these players and the rest of the team when he visited the Melbourne stadium with his dad last year.

Not a picky player, Josh doesn’t mind what position he plays as long as he gets a run.

“It’s great,” Josh says.

“I started in the forwards and now I’m in the backs. It doesn’t worry me.”

Though The Boars have clashed with the Blackwater squad several times before, Josh says today’s game will be a tough one and is keen to have a run.

With the support of the coach and fellow players, Josh hopes to continue playing with the team next year.