This NJ announcer with autism is the voice of sports at Fairleigh Dickinson University
Matt Nelson says his autism doesn't get in the way of his career, but he says people on the spectrum may need more tolerance.
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Autism Acceptance Month ends on Tuesday, but many hope the messages continue beyond that.
Words matter in the community, and a sports announcer in New Jersey is finding just the right ones, despite his diagnosis.
Matt Nelson has carved out a role as a public address announcer while processing live sports and relaying what's happening to a live audience. He’s the main announcer for Fairleigh Dickinson University basketball along with several other college teams. He also does voice over work through his own business, Nelson Voices, that he recently launched.
You would never know he takes in those moments differently. Nelson's autism doesn't get in the way of his career, but he says people on the spectrum may need more tolerance.
"There's got to be a balance of having patience and understanding because of what this individual may or may not be able to do,” Nelson said.
At 33 years old, Nelson says he conquered his own challenges.
"I've noticed there are some loud environments where I may need to step outside,” he said.
And with each new assignment, Nelson says he's learning more about himself and striving to match the excitement of the moment.
