Resources

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