Sport Industry Leaders to Spotlight Neurodiversity at Landmark Mental Wellbeing Event
– The Sport Industry Group is set to host a pivotal mental wellbeing event focused on neurodiversity in the workplace, bringing together prominent figures to champion inclusivity and understanding.
The sports industry is increasingly recognizing the importance of mental wellbeing, and a groundbreaking event on March 12th will specifically address the often-overlooked topic of neurodiversity. Held ahead of Neurodiversity Celebration Week, this gathering marks the Sport Industry Group’s inaugural mental wellbeing event of 2026, reinforcing their dedication to fostering open dialogue surrounding mental health within the sector. The event promises to delve into the real-world experiences of neurodivergent individuals in sport, examining both the hurdles they face and the significant opportunities that arise from truly supportive and inclusive environments.
What unique strengths can neurodiversity bring to high-performance sports teams? And how can organizations proactively create spaces where neurodivergent individuals thrive?
Championing Neurodiversity: A Lineup of Inspiring Speakers
Claire Rafferty: From the Pitch to Understanding ADHD
Former Chelsea footballer and current English pundit, Claire Rafferty, will share her personal journey with an ADHD diagnosis. Rafferty’s story is one of resilience, detailing how understanding her neurodivergence impacted both her personal life and her successful football career. Her insights offer a powerful perspective on navigating high-performance environments with neurodiversity.
Connie Hayes: Challenging Stereotypes in Elite Cycling
Elite British road cyclist Connie Hayes is a vocal advocate for mental wellbeing in sport. Diagnosed with autism in her twenties, Hayes brings an authentic and deeply personal account of navigating the demands of high-performance athletics while challenging conventional perceptions. Her experiences, both on and off the bike, position her as a compelling voice for change within the industry.
Katie Gleeson: Balancing Success and Wellbeing in Shooting
Katie Gleeson, a GB Shooting athlete with over 30 major international competitions under her belt, will discuss her autism diagnosis in 2025. Gleeson will explore how traits that contributed to her athletic success also led to periods of burnout, highlighting the importance of understanding and supporting neurodivergent athletes at the highest levels of competition. She is committed to improving support systems for neurodivergent athletes.
The event is designed for anyone within the sport industry interested in learning more about mental wellbeing and fostering neurodiversity in the workplace. Participants will gain valuable insights into creating more inclusive and supportive environments for all.
If you’re interested in attending the event please register here
Further resources on neurodiversity in the workplace can be found at Neurodiversity Hub and The National Autistic Society.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neurodiversity in Sport
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What is neurodiversity in the context of sports?
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in human brain function and behavioral traits. In sports, it acknowledges that athletes and professionals may experience, perceive, and interact with the world differently due to conditions like ADHD, autism, or dyslexia.
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How can a sports organization become more neurodiversity-inclusive?
Creating a neurodiversity-inclusive environment involves providing accommodations, fostering open communication, offering training on neurodiversity awareness, and challenging unconscious biases.
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What are the potential benefits of embracing neurodiversity in sports teams?
Neurodivergent individuals often possess unique strengths, such as heightened focus, pattern recognition, and creative problem-solving, which can contribute to team success.
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What support systems should be in place for neurodivergent athletes?
Support systems should include access to mental health professionals, individualized training plans, flexible work arrangements, and a supportive team environment.
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How can we challenge the stigma surrounding mental health and neurodiversity in sports?
Openly discussing mental health, sharing personal stories, and promoting education can help reduce stigma and create a more accepting culture.
The insights shared at this event promise to be transformative, offering a pathway towards a more inclusive and understanding sport industry. What steps will your organization take to champion neurodiversity and create a truly supportive environment for all?
Share this article with your network to help spread awareness and encourage a more inclusive future for sports!
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