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Podcast Episode

Inclusion Isn’t Hard: Building a Place for Every Child | Featuring Coach Mike of Fitness for Focus

Long Days Big Love Podcast··25 May 2026·15 min

About this episode

What if inclusion wasn’t something complicated—but something we simply chose to make available? In this episode of Long Days, Big Love, Audrey sits down with Coach Mike of Fitness for Focus in Wexford to talk about building spaces where every child belongs. Together, they reflect on the journey that brought Fitness for Focus and The Michael Mackie Project together and the shared mission of creating inclusive, adaptive opportunities for children and young adults of all abilities.  From the growth of Hoops & High Fives to expanding adaptive sports programming through Michael’s Victory Players, this conversation explores what happens when communities stop focusing on limitations and start creating possibilities. Audrey and Coach Mike discuss confidence, movement, friendship, learning through mistakes, and why inclusion doesn’t require perfection—it just requires opportunity. You’ll hear:  The story behind Fitness for Focus and its inclusive approach to fitness   Why adaptive and unified sports matter beyond physical activity   How sports build confidence, independence, and connection   The impact of bringing neurotypical and adaptive athletes together   What’s next for Hoops & High Fives and adaptive football programming  Whether you're a parent, educator, coach, advocate, or someone who believes every child deserves a chance to participate—this episode is for you.  Because every kid deserves a victory. #LongDaysBigLove #MichaelMackieProject #FitnessForFocus #AdaptiveSports #InclusionMatters #UnifiedSports #Parenting #SpecialNeeds #Community #DisabilityInclusion