Championing Neurodiversity and Inclusion In Sports

As Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2025 (March 17–21) approaches, the conversation around inclusivity in sports is gaining momentum. This global event provides a vital platform to educate, raise awareness, and foster a genuine change in how neurodivergent athletes are supported and celebrated. Change is needed at all levels, from schools to grassroots organisations, amateur leagues to elite athetes and professional sports.

Why Neurodiversity Matters in Sports

Neurodivergent athletes, those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other neurological differences, bring unique strengths to the sporting world. These athletes often develop strategies that enhance their performance, whether it’s hyperfocus, creativity, pattern recognition, or resilience. However, traditional sports structures can present barriers that limit participation and recognition.

Elite Athletes Championing Neurodiversity

Several high-profile UK and US athletes have spoken openly about their neurodivergent experiences, helping to break stigmas and shift perspectives:

• Michael Phelps (ADHD) – The most decorated Olympian in history has credited his ADHD for his intense focus and drive in the pool.
• Simone Biles (ADHD) – The gymnastics legend has spoken about managing her ADHD while performing at the highest level.
• Caragh McMurtry (Autism) – This British rower advocates for more inclusive coaching approaches to support neurodivergent athletes — she's even set up her own CIC, Neurodiverse Sport, a not-for-profit organisation to transform the sports sector into a space where neurodivergent athletes and participants can engage, compete, and thrive with confidence.
• Nick Ransom (Autism) – The British journalist and sports broadcaster strongly advocates neurodivergent representation in sports media.
• Thomas Young (Neurofibromatosis) – The Paralympic sprinter is pushing for greater neurodivergent inclusion in both para and mainstream sports.

⮕ Interested in booking a neurodiversity expert for your school or team? Reach out to PepTalk.

How Schools and Organisations Can Get Involved

The sports world has a tremendous opportunity to embrace neurodiversity during celebration weeks and year-round. Whether you are a coach, teacher, organisation, or sports leader, you can:

✅ Educate teams and staff on neurodivergent inclusion.

✅ Adapt coaching methods to support different neurotypes better.

✅ Invite speakers to share their expertise and lived experiences around ADHD Awareness, autism awareness and dyslexia awareness.

✅ Encourage neurodivergent athletes to share their lived experiences and perspectives.

⮕ Contact PepTalk today to book your speaker.

Book a Speaker to Inspire Your Community

To create a lasting impact, schools, sports clubs, and organisations can invite expert speakers to share their experiences and knowledge. Whether it’s an elite neurodivergent athlete, coach, or advocate, their insights can transform how we think about sports and inclusion to make sports more inclusive for everyone.