BY BOB HOLT

NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM

Anthony Starego is a Brick Township High School student who has autism and other cognitive issues. He became the starting placekicker for the Brick football team in 2012.

Starego’s parents believe that being a member of the team helps Anthony’s autism.

They are appealing the denial of a lawsuit they filed under the Americans with Disabilities Act that would allow Anthony to play one more year of high school football at age 19. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Anthony will continue to study at Brick High School until he reaches age 21, according to Autism Speaks.

The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association and the Department of Education have denied Starego’s eligibility for the team to this point. But they can’t deny that Anthony has seen more than his share of success as Brick’s placekicker.

For one thing, yes, placekicking helps Starego’s autism. The Asbury Park Press points out that repetitive behavior is a part of autism, and constant kicking of extra points and field goals in practice channeled Starego’s autism.

The Asbury Park Press also reported that after Anthony Starego joined the Brick Township football program, academic and social portions of his life began to improve. Father Raymond credited that with Anthony being a member of the Brick team.

And he has helped the team win. Last year, Starego kicked a 21-yard field goal with 21 seconds remaining to give Brick an upset win over heavily favored Toms River North 24-21.  "When he kicks a kick, it's really inspirational for our kids,” Coach Robert Dahl said to MaxPreps. "When he hit it, he ran down the sideline and our entire team ran to him. It was awesome."

Also, Anthony received national attention for the kick. Autism Speaks reported that Starego's game-winning kick was immortalized in an ESPN video, Kick of Hope.

Anthony’s ability actually worked against him, according to the NJSIAA. “This young man brings a high degree of skill to the game,” said executive director Steve Timko, according to Today.com. “He is a physically mature young man with college-level kicking skills. His participation gives the school an advantage against other teams. In the end, the committee determined that the student would displace another student on the team."