Champions of Inclusivity

The Rules of the Game

We believe the best time to make a difference is when you’re on top. The Champions of Inclusivity initiative is our way of linking sports greatness with community legacy.

Here is how the Au (Gold) Standard works:

1. You have to win the title.

The Au Shield isn't something you can just buy. It’s a "Champion’s Badge." To be eligible to wear it, a team must currently be the reigning, defending champion of their league.

2. The "Defending Year" Window.

A champion has exactly one season to claim the badge—their title defense year.

During that year, they work with us to host an Autism Acceptance night.
Once the collaboration happens, they officially earn the "Champion of Inclusivity" designation for that season.

3. The Incumbent Rule (Pass the Torch).

Eligibility follows the trophy:

If a team’s defense year ends and they don't host a night with us, the "window" closes.
The opportunity then moves to the next team that wins the championship. The badge is always waiting for the current winner.

4. The Dynasty Rule.

If a team wins back-to-back championships, they keep their window open! As long as they hold the trophy, they keep the exclusive right to earn the Au Shield.

What the Gold (Au) stands for:

We keep it simple:

Gold is for the Champions.
Au is the scientific symbol for Gold.
Au is also the symbol used by some community members for Autism.

It’s the Gold Standard for both the sport and the cause.

For the teams that haven't won the big one (yet):

Don't worry—you don't need a trophy to make an impact. We still offer Standard Autism Acceptance collaborations for any team, at any level, at any time. The Au Shield is the "playoff patch," but inclusivity is a team sport for everyone.