DELAWARE, Ohio - November 3, 2025 - Brody Hinkle, 16, a nonverbal autistic sophomore at Buckeye Valley High School in Delaware, Ohio, successfully competed on the school’s football team for the 2025 season, during which he was made Co-Captain of the Junior Varsity Squad. Finishing the season with distinction represents a major accomplishment for Brody, who has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Level 3.
“Mainstreaming a special needs child is essential, but it is not always easy,” said Brandon Hinkle, Brody’s father. “We had a number of false starts involving baseball and track, along with a period of time when Brody didn’t understand the game of football. He resolved to do the work, though, to the point where he can make a meaningful contribution to the team. He’s a tough kid and holds his own on the football field. I couldn’t be prouder of him.”
Brody’s participation in football is part of a broader success story. He excels in the classroom, too. Brody has a 3.8 GPA at Buckeye Valley High School.
According to Brody’s father, the experience of playing on the football team has led to other positive transformations in his life. “He was a super picky eater, which often occurs in people with ASD,” his father added. “However, football has been life-changing. He now eats a greater variety of foods. This may not sound like a big deal, but it is. He’s also making more friends, which is a very positive development.”
The school's football coach expressed his appreciation for Brody’s contributions to the team, saying, “He brings such great energy every single day, whether it’s at practice, on the sidelines, or in a game. You can always count on him to be smiling, encouraging everyone, and giving 100% no matter what.”
“He’s breaking a lot of barriers,” Brody’s father added.
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