‘A place to belong’: How Rainbow Roos is redefining kids soccer
By Emily Longhurst
A grassroots soccer program founded by local parent Brad Ambridge is helping hundreds of children each week find confidence, connection and joy through sport.
Rainbow Roos, designed for children of all abilities, now supports between 300 and 500 children and families weekly from Ballina to the Gold Coast.
What began as a small idea has quickly grown into a thriving community initiative.
The inspiration came from Ambridge’s own experience as a parent.
“Rainbow Roos was born from a very personal place,” he said.
“My own child is autistic and when we were looking for sport opportunities, we quickly realised many traditional programs simply weren’t designed for children who experience the world a little differently.”
Photos: Rainbow Roos participants take part in a soccer session in the Northern Rivers, as the inclusive program continues to grow.
Traditional sporting environments often focus on competition and performance, which can feel overwhelming or exclusionary for some children.
Ambridge said he wanted to create a space without pressure or expectations.
“I wanted to create something different. A place where every child could turn up exactly as they are, feel safe, feel accepted and simply enjoy playing,” he said.
“The emphasis is on smiles, confidence and belonging rather than scores or trophies.”
That approach has resonated strongly with families.
More than 60 per cent of children attending Rainbow Roos sessions have additional needs, including neurodivergence, physical disabilities and social or emotional challenges.
For many families, finding a supportive sporting environment can be difficult.
Ambridge said providing that space locally has become one of the program’s most meaningful outcomes.
He recalls one young participant who initially struggled to engage.
“In the first session they wouldn’t go near the ball and mostly stayed close to their parent,” he said.
Over time, that changed.
“By the fourth week that same child was running around the pitch, dribbling the ball and celebrating goals with the biggest smile you could imagine,” he said.
“The parents told us it was the first organised activity their child had ever felt comfortable in.”
Rainbow Roos now runs sessions across Ballina, Lismore, Casino, Kyogle, Nimbin, Bonalbo and Woodenbong.
Programs are also delivered in schools, preschools, after-school care and community spaces.
The initiative has begun expanding into the Tweed and Gold Coast, with new BabyRoos sessions for younger children.
Despite rapid growth, affordability remains a priority.
“The biggest challenge is keeping up with demand while ensuring programs remain accessible,” Ambridge said.
“Many of the families we work with already face significant financial and social pressures.”
As a charity, Rainbow Roos relies on sponsorship, partnerships, volunteers and community support.
Ambridge said inclusive sport delivers benefits far beyond physical activity.
“For many children it is where they learn confidence, friendship, resilience and a sense of belonging,” he said.
“Inclusive sport creates an environment where differences are normalised and celebrated.”
From just one weekly session in 2024, Rainbow Roos now delivers more than 30 sessions each week.
Growth has been driven largely by word of mouth among families.
Ambridge said the goal is simple.
“We want every child, regardless of ability or background, to feel that sport is a place where they belong.”
To learn more or get involved, visit: https://www.rainbowroos.com.au/
