Neurodiversity & Sensory Inclusion: Quick Guide for Players

Before you go

• Check the venue, entrance, start time and expected finish.
• Ask how match calls and schedule changes will be communicated.
• Find out whether there is a quieter place to wait if you need one.
• Keep any useful information on your phone or in writing.
• If you want an adjustment, describe the practical barrier and what would help.

Things you might ask for

• Written instructions as well as spoken instructions.
• A warning before physical coaching contact.
• Clearer notice of schedule or table changes.
• A quieter waiting area where feasible.
• Permission to use ear protection between matches where rules/safety allow.
• Extra processing time for non-urgent explanations.
• A named person or clear place to ask event questions.

These are examples, not a list of what every neurodivergent person needs.

Useful wording

“I take part best when ______.”

“The difficult part of the environment is ______. What would help is ______.”

“Please give me changes in writing if possible.”

Your information

You can often discuss practical support without giving your complete diagnostic history. If an organisation says it needs more information, you can ask what it needs, why it needs it, who will see it and how long it will keep it.

Remember

Neurodivergence does not determine your ambition. You may want social play, elite competition, coaching, officiating, leadership — or simply a good session. Your sporting goals belong to you.