Research
&
Insights
Insights, Expertise, Lived Experience
We combine research insights, practitioner expertise, and lived experiences to shape our resources and services.
Recognising the gap in research on neurodiversity in sport, we actively collaborate with researchers and institutions—whether through partnerships, support, or knowledge sharing. If you're interested in learning more about specific projects, reach out, and we may connect you with the relevant individual.
Upcoming; “Neurodiversity in sport: from PE to elite sport”
In Progress; "Neurodiverse Athletes: A Comparative Analysis of Individual and Team Sports Experiences"
Published; "Developing inclusive policy and guidelines in sport: a call to action for sport governing bodies and individuals to support neurodivergent athletes." In Progress; “Time to think differently: Understanding the experiences of neurodivergent athletes navigating pregnancy and return-to-sport."
Published; "Physical activity and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: perspectives on barriers, facilitators, and preferences. A scoping review." In Progress; "exploring how mental wellbeing is a barrier and facilitator of physical activity in women with ADHD." In Progress; "Exploring the experiences of women with ADHD in engaging in physical activity."
In Progress; "Exploring the experiences of PE teachers working with Neurodivergent pupils." In Progress; "Exploring the experiences of Neurodivergent climbers." In Progress; "Setting Priorities with Neurodivergent Young People in Sport and Physical Activity Research."
In Progress; "The lived experiences of individuals with ADHD in high-level team sports."
In Progress; "An athlete’s perspective: How can neurodiversity in elite sport best be supported by organisations and key stakeholders?"
In Progress; "Exploring the lived experiences of neurodivergent athletes who have retired from high-performance sport."
In Progress; "Exploring the stressors that athletes with neurodiversity experience when competing at a high level." In Progress; "Exploring the experiences of those supporting neurodiverse athletes."
Published; "Neurodiversity in elite sport: a systematic scoping review."
In Progress; "A coach's perspective on the applicability of the 5Cs for individuals with ASD."
If you're a current university student working on a research project, we'd love to support you. While we don't offer research positions directly, we can help with participant recruitment and facilitate networking opportunities within the sports community. Get in touch to learn more.
Ethical Research
Research on neurodivergence has historically been shaped by a highly medicalised and often dehumanising perspective, overlooking the lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals. We are committed to challenging this outdated approach.
Ethical integrity is central to our research collaborations. We prioritise the needs and interests of neurodivergent individuals by amplifying their voices and ensuring our recommendations reflect a holistic, inclusive perspective.
Exciting News
Neurodiverse Sport is Joining Forces with King's College London on a PhD Project Exploring “Neurodiversity in Sport: From PE to Elite Sport.”
Neurodiverse Sport Joins Forces with King's College London
Neurodiverse Sport has been named the official non-academic research partner for King's College London on the innovative project, Neurodiversity in Sport: From PE to Elite Sport. This collaboration, beginning during the 2025/26 academic year as part of postgraduate research, brings together academic rigor and practical expertise to explore neurodiversity across the full spectrum of sports—from physical education to elite competition.
By partnering with King's College London, Neurodiverse Sport will contribute invaluable real-world insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by neurodivergent athletes. This initiative aims to identify effective strategies and inclusive practices that can be implemented across various sporting contexts, ensuring that neurodiversity is recognised and supported at every level.
The partnership demonstrates a commitment to bridging the gap between research and practice, fostering a more inclusive and accessible sporting environment for all. Stay tuned for further updates and join us in advancing the dialogue on neurodiversity in sport.
Notable Publications
“Developing inclusive policy and guidelines in sport: a call to action for sport governing bodies and individuals to support neurodivergent athletes”
C. McMurtry, C. Freeman, J. Perkins, G. M. Donnelly, I. S. Moore
Developing Inclusive Policy and Guidelines in Sport: A Call to Action to Support Neurodivergent Athletes
This article advocates for sports organizations to create inclusive policies that acknowledge the unique needs and strengths of neurodivergent athletes. It explains that neurodiversity encompasses a range of cognitive and behavioral variations—including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia—with many individuals experiencing co-occurring or even undiagnosed conditions.
The authors argue that, under Equality Laws in many countries, sports organizations have a duty to adapt their practices to ensure an accessible and supportive environment. They call for a shift away from a deficit-focused medical model towards a strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach. By applying a socioecological framework, the article suggests that adaptations can be made at individual, interpersonal, community, and environmental levels, ensuring that all athletes can thrive. It also highlights the benefits of using Universal Design principles to make reasonable adjustments that are both effective and resource-sensitive.
Read the full article to explore detailed recommendations, case examples, and the call for a collaborative approach in developing policies that truly support neurodivergent athletes.
“Neurodiversity in elite sport: a systematic scoping review”
Erin Hoare, Jonathan Reyes, Lisa Olive, Catherine Willmott, Emma Steer, Michael Berk, Kate Hall
Systematic Scoping Review on Neurodiversity in Elite Sports
This systematic scoping review, published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine, assesses the current state of research on neurodiversity in elite sports. The review analysed 23 studies—including observational research, systematic and narrative reviews, commentary pieces, and qualitative investigations—to paint a comprehensive picture of the field.
A significant portion of the literature has focused on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), examining its links with concussion risks, recovery processes, and the complexities of managing ADHD within sports anti-doping frameworks. Notably, the review found that only one study explored the lived experiences of autistic athletes through qualitative interviews, underscoring a critical research gap.
These findings highlight the urgent need for future studies aimed at developing supportive and inclusive environments for neurodivergent athletes.
Read the full review to explore detailed insights and recommendations for advancing neurodiversity research in elite sports.
“Physical Activity and Adults with ADHD: Perspectives on Barriers, Facilitators, and Preferences”
Airley, Rhiannon, D2.S1.1(2)
Physical Activity and Adults with ADHD: Perspectives on Barriers, Facilitators, and Preferences
This scoping review by Rhiannon Airley from Edgehill University, published in the Journal of Sports Sciences (Volume 42, 2024 – Issue sup1: BASES Conference Programme 2024), examines the current research landscape on physical activity among adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The review collates and synthesises findings from various studies to understand:
Barriers: Challenges that hinder adults with ADHD from engaging in regular physical activity, such as difficulties with organisation, motivation, and managing daily routines.
Facilitators: Factors that support or enhance the likelihood of participation, including structured programmes, supportive environments, and tailored interventions.
Preferences: The specific exercise preferences and approaches favoured by adults with ADHD, which can inform the development of more effective, personalised physical activity programmes.
By highlighting these perspectives, the review underscores the need for further research and practical strategies to create supportive environments that help adults with ADHD overcome obstacles and enjoy the benefits of physical activity.
Read the full article for detailed insights and recommendations.
Future Insights
Upcoming Collaborations: Shaping the Future of Neurodiversity in Sport
Neurodiverse Sport is thrilled to announce two exciting collaborations that will offer fresh insights into neurodiversity across all levels of sport.
UK Coaching's LINK Community & Neurodiversity Coaching Circle
In partnership with UK Coaching, we’re launching a Neurodiversity Coaching Circle. This initiative leverages LINK—a dynamic community platform that brings coaches in the UK Performance Pathway together. LINK is your space to connect, share ideas, access valuable resources, and grow your network. Through Coaching Circles led by experienced LINK Leaders, coaches can dive into engaging discussions and explore best practices for supporting neurodivergent athletes. If you're interested in learning more or getting involved, please contact UK Coaching.
UK Sports Institute Performance Innovation Team
We’re also collaborating with the UK Sports Institute Innovations Team to explore the future of neurodiversity in elite sport. This project will investigate how emerging technologies, innovative training methods, and creative strategies can help build more inclusive environments for neurodivergent athletes at the highest levels of competition. For further details, contact the UK Sports Institute.
Stay tuned for more updates as these projects develop, and join us in shaping a more inclusive future for sport!
