Autistic Strengths within Sport

• Attention to detail – spotting patterns of play/scouting opponents
• Preferring routines – consistency and organisation
• Exceptional memory for facts/numbers/events – data analysts
• Being different – possessing different skills (it’s believed Lionel Messi is autistic)
• Honesty – more clear in communication 
• Creativity – new coaching ideas/utilising new skills/finding different ways to win
• Intense focus on a favourite activity – high concentration and less likely to become lazy or switch off
• Punctuality and reliability – arriving at training on time/being there for others who need them
• Big picture thinkers – may visualise a team/player achieving more than they believe they can
• Loyalty – may stay with a team/coach/player for a long period of time
• A fondness for rules – team player/not getting red carded/not breaking team policies
• Not influenced by the majority – may pick the best team rather than the popular team 
• Less emotional at times – may be able to think clearer during an important game/match