Resources

Autistic Struggles within Sport

  • Socialising – team bonding or events/being popular amongst teammates.
  • Honesty – not diving for a free kick/claiming a corner which wasn’t theirs.
  • Navigating illogical rules/policies – getting yellow carded for a foul they didn’t commit.
  • Plans changing – team systems changing/moving clubs/fixtures or training rearranged.
  • Talking skills – may talk less/not understand what they’re meant to say.
  • Banter – may not understand this, may take things literally.
  • Climbing the ladder – may not possess social skills to do this (applying for a manger role).
  • Anxiety – performing in front of large crowds/teammates.
  • Opposition fans/spectators – may react to abuse or be unable to block out.
  • Challenging authority if they don’t agree with them – disagree with managers or coaches.
  • May only be able to play/perform a certain way – using 1 foot/holding a racket ‘wrongly’.
  • Coordination – running differently/timing when jumping.