Introduction

While autism and ADHD in sport are finally starting to gain recognition, dyspraxia remains largely invisible, with very few public figures willing or able to speak openly about it. That’s what makes Patrick Chorley’s story so valuable. Diagnosed with dyslexia, dyspraxia (otherwise known as Developmental Coordination Disorder), and ADHD, Patrick is a rower, coxswain, climber, and leader whose experiences offer powerful insight into what it means to be neurodivergent in a world that often doesn’t accommodate difference.

From the freedom of movement in rowing and trampolining to the sting of exclusion in elite teams, Patrick has experienced both the highs and lows of sport—and has channelled both into building spaces where others like him can belong. He may not fit the conventional mould of an “athlete,” but that’s exactly the point. This blog is for people who rewrite the script—and Patrick does just that.

Unconventionally Active

Patrick Chorley is a rower, coxswain, and climber who has been diagnosed with dyslexia, dyspraxia, and ADHD at different stages of his life. The way he describes the sensory experience of sport, particularly in relation to dyspraxia, offers valuable insight and may help bridge the current gap in understanding.

Patrick’s relationship with movement began early, through constant fidgeting and a natural drive to stay active. His first formal experience with sport came when his mum enrolled him in gymnastics and trampolining, hoping these activities would help him channel his energy and build muscle tone—something affected by his dyspraxia.

Patrick loved trampolining—for him, the sense of freedom and fluid movement felt especially exhilarating, likely amplified by his neurodivergence. Yet these kinds of positive experiences are rarely discussed, and there are still very few athletes who openly identify as dyspraxic.

Olympic Inspiration and the Joy of Rowing

Although Patrick lost touch with sport after his family relocated, watching the London 2012 Olympics reignited his passion. Inspired, he joined Barn Elms Rowing Club. For Patrick, both rowing and coxing offered a familiar sense of “freedom”—much like trampolining had. These sports didn’t just demand energy; they returned it, creating a feeling of effortless momentum—gliding through water or soaring through air.

Sport as Refuge and Equaliser

Patrick described rowing as a chance to “leave everything on the land and have fun on the water, regardless of how good the session is.” For many neurodivergent athletes, sport offers exactly that—a neutral, safe space where the pressures of daily life temporarily lift. This kind of sanctuary becomes especially vital when school, work, or home life feels overwhelming.

He also praised the inclusive spirit of his rowing club, where people from all walks of life end up in the same boat—both literally and metaphorically.

Unlocking Strengths Through Sport

Patrick’s neurodivergence hasn’t just been a challenge—it’s part of what makes him exceptional. Pursuing sport in his own time and way allowed him to optimise his unique strengths, such as visual-spatial reasoning.

He found a particular talent for coxing, described being able to see the stream interacting with the boat, the blades with the water, the rudder with the current. Likewise, he spoke about visualising hand and foot holds while climbing.

Facing Rejection – and Building Belonging

At both school and university, Patrick initially had negative experiences with structured sports teams. When he tried out for the University of Durham Rowing Team, he was told he’d “never cut it as an athlete.” But instead of walking away, he created an alternative.

In his third year, Patrick became President of his college boat club, cultivating an ethos of radical inclusion. This was a space for anyone who wanted to do sport—regardless of their previous experiences or perceived ability. All they needed was a desire to be there.

Although he had to build this outside the main team, Patrick’s initiative created a space that might not have otherwise existed. Despite his efforts, he still felt the need to apologise for the challenges related to his dyslexia—a feeling that’s not uncommon. Individuals on the fringes often put in significant effort to connect, but communication differences or limited understanding can make those efforts harder to recognise or receive.

Final Thoughts

Patrick’s story is a powerful reminder that neurodivergent athletes don’t need to be “fixed”—they need to be seen, heard, and supported. His journey from exclusion to leadership, and from fidgety kid to spatially gifted coxswain, shows what’s possible when someone is allowed to write their own story.

We live in a fast-paced world, where taking the time to truly get to know someone is often seen as a luxury. But when you stop and listen—really listen—what you gain is immeasurable. Neurodivergent people aren’t always what you expect—but isn’t that the point? That’s what makes life, teams, and communities more interesting.

There’s a saying: “If you’ve met one neurodivergent person, you’ve met one neurodivergent person.” It’s true. But in taking the time to understand even one, you start building the openness and awareness to meet many more.

We’re grateful to Patrick for sharing his story—and proud to share it here.

Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn.

Key Takeaways for Neurodivergent Individuals

Your Path is Valid
→ Like Patrick, you might not fit the system—but that doesn’t mean you don’t belong.
Your Strengths Are Real
→ 3D thinking, spatial awareness, and creativity are legitimate and valuable tools.
Rejection Isn't the End
→ Sometimes, the best way forward is to create your own inclusive space.

Key Takeaways for Peers, Supporters, and Parents

See the Person, Not the Label
→ Support and belief can be life-changing—especially when someone is underestimated.
Listen to Understand
→ Curiosity opens doors that judgment slams shut.
Help Amplify Strengths
→ Don’t fix the person—adapt the environment and support their spark.

Key Takeaways for Coaches, Leaders, and Organisations

Broaden Your Definition of Success
→ Winning isn’t just about performance metrics—it’s also about inclusion and impact.
Adapt the Systems, Not Just the People
→ A flexible pathway doesn’t lower standards—it increases access.
Value Unconventional Thinkers
→ The "outsiders" often bring insight, empathy, and innovation that sport desperately needs.

This blog post was written by Caragh McMurtry. Subheadings were added by the Neurodiverse Sport team to support readability.

Rewriting the Neurodivergent Narrative: Patrick Chorley, Rowing, Climbing