NEURODIVERSE SPORT

CHAMPIONING  NEUROINCLUSIVE  PRACTICE  IN  SPORT

Sport should include every mind.

Help us build a world where neurodivergent people can thrive through sport.

Neurodiversity In Sport:

Why We Exist

Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in how all human brains function. It includes people with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, OCD, and other cognitive differences—individuals whose thinking styles differ from what’s typically expected.

But in a world designed around neurotypical norms, neurodivergent people often face systemic barriers to participation, recognition, and success. That’s why deliberate inclusion, tailored support, and equitable opportunities are not optional—they’re essential.

This is why we exist.

We are the leading not-for-profit championing neurodivergent people in sport. Our mission is to empower athletes, participants, volunteers, and professionals at every level—and our vision is a future where neuroinclusive practice is the norm, not the exception.

Driven by lived experience and expert insight, we unite researchers, advocates, neurodivergent athletes, and inclusive coaches to create lasting change.

Through education, advocacy, and tailored support, we help clubs, teams, organisations, and governing bodies embed neuroinclusive practice—so everyone can thrive, from grassroots to elite.

Participation in sport is disproportionately critical for neurodivergent people.

For many, sport is the only place they feel successful, included, or understood.

Yet sport too often reflects the exclusion found in wider society.

Why Neuroinclusion in Sport Can’t Wait

Sport is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline.

Sport =

  • It's a harsh reality, but for many, sport = staying alive

    For some, sport isn’t just helpful—it’s a lifeline. It can be the reason to get up, show up, and keep going when everything else feels too hard.

  • Mental health improvements and suicide prevention

    Sport provides routine, connection, and purpose—powerful protective factors for mental health, and vital support in preventing isolation and crisis.

  • Support for emotional regulation and sensory needs

    Physical activity and trusted environments can help manage emotional intensity, while flexible sport settings can respect sensory preferences and needs.

  • Safe and structured communication

    Sport offers clear rules, routines, and shared goals—creating a predictable space where neurodivergent individuals can communicate confidently and thrive socially.

  • Social inclusion and team belonging

    Being part of a team builds connection, acceptance, and community—helping neurodivergent people feel seen, valued, and genuinely included.

  • Trusted adult relationships and role models

    Sport gives space to explore and express identity, challenge stigma, and celebrate neurodivergent ways of thinking, moving, and leading.

  • Opportunities for success when other systems fail

    Where education or employment may exclude, sport can highlight strengths, offering achievement, recognition, and self-worth through different measures of success.

  • Pathways to education, employment, and leadership

    Sport can be a gateway to qualifications, careers, and leadership roles—enabling neurodivergent people to turn passion into lifelong opportunity.

  • Identity, creativity, and advocacy

    Sport gives space to explore and express identity, challenge stigma, and celebrate neurodivergent ways of thinking, moving, and leading.

Featured
"Neurodiversity in Sport" Hits the Airwaves – Thank You, BBC 5 Live!
"Neurodiversity in Sport" Hits the Airwaves – Thank You, BBC 5 Live!

We’re honoured to have joined BBC 5 Live’s “All About” podcast for an hour-long conversation on neurodiversity in elite sport. From Olympic rower Caragh McMurtry’s lived experience to Lucy Bronze’s powerful self-discovery, this episode spotlighted the strengths, challenges, and growing visibility of neurodivergent athletes. Here’s why this national moment matters—and how it fuels our mission at Neurodiverse Sport.

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