TO THE MAX EXPERIENCES

Luxury suites at professional sporting arenas create a sensory-considerate space where autistic individuals, families and small groups can enjoy live sports with the freedom to move, regulate and engage at their own pace. Nominate a family or group below!

WHY WE CREATED THIS

We created this program from experience.

Our son, Max, is autistic. Despite Scott’s role in the NBA, attending games has rarely felt seamless for our family.

When we go, I plan exit strategies, stay hyperaware and accept we could last ten minutes or two hours. I don’t bring both of our children to the same game because I need to remain fully in tune with Max’s needs.

Last fall, our G League team, the Salt Lake City Stars, hosted a Bluey-themed night. Our daughter was excited to go. Max was in a challenging season and we didn’t feel it was in his best interest to force the experience.

I wrestled with the idea of not going together as a family. Then the night before the game, I asked if we might be able to use a vacant suite. Having previously worked in professional sport, I knew there were often unused suites in smaller venues.

Our Jazz and Stars family graciously said yes. And it changed everything.

Max could get up and move freely. He could sit close to the action or step away for a sensory break. Bathroom access was simple. He couldn’t elope. There was space to regulate. That night we got something rare - an unforgettable experience together as a family.

We knew that this was the experience and the feeling we wanted to replicate for other families.

"This gave our family the chance to do something we never thought possible. Knowing we were in a safe, understanding space made all the difference and our kids are still talking about it."
Jaclyn, Mom of 3
"I’ve been an NBA fan my whole life and always dreamed of taking my son to a game but never thought I could. The idea felt too overwhelming, too stressful, too risky, but this opportunity was an unforgettable night."
Trent, Dad of 2
"For the first time, our entire family was able to attend a professional sporting event together. The calm, spacious and safe environment made it possible and an amazing experience for our whole family."
Ashley, Mom of 2
IMG_3061.jpeg
IMG_3080.jpeg
IMG_3094.jpeg
IMG_3392.jpeg
IMG_3404 2.jpeg
IMG_3405 2.jpeg
IMG_3406 2.jpeg
IMG_3411 2.jpeg
IMG_3414 2.jpeg
IMG_5397.jpeg
IMG_5788.jpeg
IMG_5798.jpeg
bd79jpc-0!sizeoriginal.jpeg
p22NgP9-0!sizeoriginal.jpeg
QxdD5r2-0!sizeoriginal.jpeg
SnxPJjM-0!sizeoriginal.jpeg

To nominate an individual, family or small group, please use the form below.
A nominator must be a credible professional that works with the individual, family or group. Eligible nominating professions include: Doctors, Teachers, Therapists (speech, OT, physiotherapists, etc) Aid/Paraprofessional, Case Worker, Social Worker and Program Directors.

Please note, not all nominations will be accepted. Selections will be made by a committee. Please see the FAQ section below for more details.

NOMINATION FORM

FAQ

  • No. The experience is fully funded by To the Max Foundation.

  • No, the Foundation is not responsible for transportation or travel expenses associated with the Experience. Most suite rentals come with parking validation but spaces are limited and are dependent on the policy of each individual team or organization.

  • Each arena has its own suite capacity limitations. As a generalized rule, most suites can accommodate a minimum of 16 individuals.

  • To the Max Experiences is designed specifically for autistic individuals. A formal diagnostic document is not required to submit a nomination. Because nominations must be submitted by a professional who works directly with the nominee, we rely on their professional knowledge and good-faith confirmation.

    We aim to keep this process respectful, accessible, and centered on trust.

  • Currently, nominations must be submitted by a professional who works directly with the individual. This allows us to receive thoughtful insight into the nominee’s needs and ensures we can create a supportive, well-planned experience.

    As To the Max Experiences expands, we hope to broaden access opportunities.