NEURODIVERSE SPORT
CHAMPIONING NEUROINCLUSIVE PRACTICE IN SPORT
In collaboration with visionary teams
Hi, thanks for visiting our website!
We are the leading not-for-profit championing neurodivergent individuals in sport, dedicated to empowering athletes and participants at all levels. We shape the conversation on neurodiversity, advancing neuroinclusive practices with expertise from researchers, advocates, elite neurodivergent athletes, and expert coaches. Our vision is to make neuroinclusivity standard across sports, ensuring neurodivergent individuals are recognised, celebrated, and supported. Through targeted education, advocacy, and tailored services, we help sports clubs, teams, businesses, and institutions embed neuroinclusive practices, so that everyone—from grassroots to elite—has the opportunity to thrive.
-
Our mission is to facilitate learning through the sharing of lived experiences and expert insights.
-
We envision a future where neuroinclusive practices are the norm in all sports.
-
Through cutting-edge research, ongoing dialogue, and a commitment to real-world impact, we are advancing both the conversation and practice of neurodiversity in sport.
Our focus is to deepen understanding of neurodiversity within the sports world and to champion neuroinclusive practices at every level—from grassroots teams to elite competition, and across the professional workforce. We aim to highlight neurodivergent excellence, create inspiring role models, promote equitable opportunities for participation in community sports, and harness the protective power of sport for those most vulnerable to adverse outcomes.
-
This means that at least one in seven people have a condition such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or dyspraxia. Together, they represent a “community of extremes” in terms of physical activity - including some of the most and least active people in society.
Current data suggests that the majority of neurodivergent young people are not sufficiently active, with only 10-14% reaching this threshold; this is compared to 47% of their neurotypical peers. Yet, research also highlights the disproportionate benefits of physical activity for neurodivergent children, improving cognitive function by up to 20% and motor skills by up to 25%. Furthermore, emerging studies suggest that neurodivergent individuals may be overrepresented in elite sports, showcasing their potential when given supportive environments.
Whether struggling to participate or achieving at the highest level of sport, neurodivergent individuals frequently encounter barriers such as limited understanding and lack of tailored support in sporing environments. With the need for more research into specific barriers and solutions, we are committed to closing this knowledge gap and championing change.
News
-
Caragh McMurtry, founder and CEO of Neurodiverse Sport, will join a panel at the United We Row Summit, a virtual event dedicated to fostering inclusivity and accessibility in rowing. McMurtry will discuss the newly launched neurodiversity resource on US Rowing's The Launch education platform, a collaboration between Neurodiverse Sport and US Rowing. This resource aims to support rowers, coaches, and teams in better understanding and accommodating neurodivergent athletes, emphasising that there is truly “a seat in the boat for everyone.” The panel will be part of the summit held on November 14th-15th 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET (Eastern Time) on Zoom, where participants can engage with experts, gain tangible skills, and connect with like-minded rowing professionals.
The United We Row Summit is designed to unite rowing leaders and coaches, creating a space for networking, skill-building, and accountability. The summit’s sessions focus on providing attendees with actionable skills to promote inclusivity. Each session will incorporate interactive elements, including chat discussions, Q&A, and practical activities, allowing attendees to leave with strategies they can apply immediately to their programs. Registration and event details are available at United We Row Summit.
-
At this year’s Westminster Insights Sport for All Conference, Neurodiverse Sport made a powerful impact, with Charles Freeman, NdS Director, and Mikey Mottram, NdS Co-Founder, sharing an insightful presentation on the organisation’s position within the sector and the broader landscape of neurodiversity in sport. Their speech focused on the three main objectives of Neurodiverse Sport: promoting neurodivergent excellence, ensuring equitable opportunities in community sport, and highlighting the role of sport as a protective factor for neurodivergent individuals.
The speech was incredibly well-received, offering a perspective on neurodiversity in sport that had not been aired publicly before. It sparked deep reflection among the audience, triggering conversations that led to numerous individuals reaching out to explore further collaboration and support. The session emphasised the need for change in the sector and reinforced the importance of creating spaces in sport where neurodivergent individuals can not only participate but excel. This moment at the conference was a key milestone in advancing the neurodiversity agenda within the sports community.
-
Neurodiverse Sport is excited to announce the launch of our Speaker Programme, designed to bring lived experience, expert knowledge, and practical insights on neurodiversity in sport to audiences across the sector. Featuring a diverse range of speakers, including neurodivergent athletes, coaches, practitioners, and psychologists, our Speaker Programme offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from those who understand the challenges and strengths of neurodivergent individuals in sport.
Whether through workshops, webinars, panels, or keynote speeches, our speakers are equipped to deliver engaging and thought-provoking content tailored to your needs. With a focus on fostering neuroinclusive practices, promoting understanding, and inspiring change, the Speaker Programme aims to raise awareness, drive action, and help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for neurodivergent individuals in sport.
-
We are thrilled to welcome Rhiannon Cooper, The Active Autist, as Neurodiverse Sport’s new Head of YouTube! Though she’s only been in the role for a few short months, Rhiannon has already made an incredible impact with her scintillating interviews and the development of exceptional content. Her work ethic, creativity, and unwavering commitment to advancing neurodiversity in sport are nothing short of inspiring, and we are so glad to have her on board.
Not only are Rhiannon's guests incredibly interesting, but her personal story is one that will leave you motivated and moved. As a late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD individual, Rhiannon has turned her life and health around by embracing her neurodivergence. Her journey of self-discovery has empowered her to find herself, and she brings that same energy and passion to her work. Be sure to check out her interviews and content—you won't just find fascinating insights about neurodiversity in sport, but also a chance to hear from Rhiannon herself, whose story is truly inspirational. We’re excited to see the impact she will continue to make as part of our team!
-
We are incredibly excited to publicly announce Leah Godfrey as our Chief Operating Officer. Over the last few months, Leah’s addition to the team has been nothing short of invaluable. An exceptional entrepreneur and businesswoman, she brings a wealth of expertise and a unique ability to activate ideas into meaningful action. Leah’s impact goes beyond her strategic thinking—she has a remarkable ability to make everyone feel seen, heard, and valued, whether it’s our internal team, our beneficiaries, or our clients. Her commitment to carrying our values and principles with her in every interaction is truly inspiring. We are proud to have such a strong, progressive female leader as part of our team, and we’re excited to see the continued growth and success under her guidance.
Visit our YouTube channel, hosted by Rhiannon Cooper, The Active Autist! Join us as Rhiannon leads heartfelt interviews that go beyond performance to uncover the personal stories, revelations, and valuable learnings of neurodivergent athletes. Whether you're here for inspiration or practical advice, our channel celebrates diverse minds in sports—subscribe and explore a world where every story offers a new perspective.
Explore our blog, where we explore the intersection of neurodiversity and sport, uncovering ways to empower neurodivergent individuals at every level. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or supporter, our articles, insights, and tips offer a fresh perspective on how neurodiversity enhances sports performance and community. Dive in to discover inspiring stories, practical strategies, and resources that help make sports more inclusive and supportive for everyone.
How can we help you?
-
Our Resource Pages offer a growing library of downloadable materials designed to support neurodivergent athletes, coaches, and sports organisations. From practical guides to inclusive coaching techniques to tools that help athletes understand and leverage their strengths, we are constantly expanding this library to provide accessible, valuable resources for the neurodiverse community in sport.
-
Our Blog features powerful stories of lived experiences, offering insights from neurodivergent athletes, coaches, and supporters within the sports world. Additionally, we share event write-ups, spotlighting our involvement and the impact of neuroinclusion in sports. These stories help raise awareness, foster empathy, and celebrate the achievements of the neurodiverse community.
-
Through our comprehensive range of services, including our Speaker Programme and tailored consultation packages, we support organisations in creating more inclusive environments for neurodivergent athletes. Our experts provide awareness training, strategic advice, and customised solutions to help sports teams and organisations better understand and meet the needs of neurodivergent individuals, from grassroots to elite levels.
“If you create a safe space for people to share their different experience of the world you can be an enabler. You can help people step out of their comfort zone and achieve things beyond their limits.”