Tackling Inclusion: RFU and Neurodiverse Sport Launch Coaching Resources for Neurodivergent Players
At Neurodiverse Sport, we believe that inclusion should be embedded in every level of sport—not tacked on as an afterthought. That’s why we’re proud to have partnered with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) to create a suite of neurodiversity resources for rugby coaches, now available on the official England Rugby coaching portal.
These resources were designed to support coaches across the grassroots and performance pathways by offering practical, realistic tools that make rugby more accessible and empowering for neurodivergent players. Whether you’re new to coaching or have years of experience, these bite-sized guides help reframe common challenges as opportunities for growth—for players and coaches alike.
What the Resources Cover:
The materials are focused on improving coach confidence, communication, and session structure to help neurodivergent players thrive. Topics include:
How to tailor coaching techniques to support players with different processing styles
Building inclusive team environments that foster psychological safety
Navigating communication and sensory needs with clarity and compassion
Recognising autistic, ADHD, and other neurodivergent traits in the context of sport
Supporting co-occurring conditions like dyspraxia, dyslexia, or anxiety
All content is grounded in lived experience and expert insight from neurodivergent athletes, coaches, and practitioners.
Why It Matters:
1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodivergent, and many more are undiagnosed or undisclosed. That means it's highly likely every coach will work with neurodivergent players, whether they realise it or not. Neurodivergent athletes bring unique strengths to sport—from focus and creativity to resilience and dedication—but only when the environment allows them to succeed.
Too often, behavioural misunderstandings or communication mismatches lead to exclusion. These new resources help shift the narrative from managing 'difficult behaviour' to recognising and responding to unmet needs.
Made for Coaches, With Coaches
Throughout the development process, we worked closely with coaches and stakeholders in the rugby community to ensure the materials reflect real-world scenarios. We know time is limited and coaching environments are dynamic, so the tools are designed to be concise, adaptable, and easy to apply.
What Coaches Are Saying:
"This isn’t just about supporting a few players. It’s about making the whole team better."
"I never realised how small changes could make such a big difference."
"This helped me understand some of the things I’ve seen on the pitch in a whole new way."
Explore the Resources:
Visit the England Rugby Coaching Resources page and look for the Neurodiversity in Rugby section to access all the downloadable content.
Together, let’s make rugby a place where every brain can thrive.
Want to embed these ideas deeper into your club, team, or programme? Get in touch with Neurodiverse Sport to discuss bespoke workshops, webinars, or consultation packages.
Because inclusion isn't extra work—it's the work.
