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Community Stories, Neurodiversity in Sport Caragh McMurtry Community Stories, Neurodiversity in Sport Caragh McMurtry

Status Quo: Peter’s Story of Passion, Persistence, and Pushing Back Against the Mould

Peter Barnes never received a formal diagnosis—but his reflections on ADHD and neurodivergence offer powerful insight into how self-understanding, adaptability, and resilience can reshape both life and sport. From exclusion in school PE to carving out a lifelong passion for cycling, Peter’s story challenges rigid sporting systems and calls for more human-centred, flexible approaches to coaching and inclusion.

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Unapologetically Living YOUR Life and Mapping the Way Forward

In this moving reflection, former international cricketer Olivia Rae shares how her late Autism and ADHD diagnosis reshaped not just how she saw herself—but how she lived. Told with honesty and grace, Olivia’s story challenges traditional ideas of success in sport and life. From burnout to balance, survival to sustainability, this is a journey about reclaiming identity, redefining what works, and finally, living unapologetically.

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Inclusive Coaching Caragh McMurtry Inclusive Coaching Caragh McMurtry

'The Unique Privilege of Working with an Athlete with Diagnosed or Suspected Autism Spectrum Condition'

In this insightful blog, Dr Caz Nahman—child and adolescent psychiatrist and teaching lead at Oxford University—shares a composite case study based on her real-world experience supporting Autistic athletes. Through the story of Katie, a national-level swimmer navigating university life, we see how missed communication, misunderstanding, and well-intentioned coaching can impact a neurodivergent athlete’s wellbeing and performance. The blog offers practical guidance on building trust, improving communication, and creating inclusive environments where Autistic athletes can thrive.

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“Different. But it’s good that I’m different.” — Elliott Shaw, International Karting

Elliott Shaw is a 20-year-old British racing driver competing at the top level of karting—and he’s proudly Autistic and ADHD. In this refreshingly direct interview, Elliott shares how his neurodivergence fuels his attention to detail, resilience, and drive to win. He also reflects on bullying, sensory challenges, and why finding the right team makes all the difference. For Elliott, racing isn’t just a sport—it’s a way to channel his energy, build self-worth, and stay balanced. A powerful story of difference as strength.

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Community Stories, Inclusive Coaching Caragh McMurtry Community Stories, Inclusive Coaching Caragh McMurtry

Nerys Hall – Learning to Work With ADHD, Not Against It

Junior European medallist and GB kayaker Nerys Hall opens up about her journey with ADHD in high-performance sport. From masking and meltdowns to resilience and self-acceptance, she shares how diagnosis helped her work with ADHD, not against it. Her message is clear: when athletes are understood and supported, they don’t just survive—they thrive.

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Community Stories, Neurodiversity in Sport Caragh McMurtry Community Stories, Neurodiversity in Sport Caragh McMurtry

Staying the Course in a System That Wasn’t Built for Her: Michelle’s Story

Michelle Lau is a world-ranked amateur golfer, software developer, and proud Autistic woman. Her journey into elite disability golf began after seeing the work of Neurodiverse Sport—proof that visibility and representation can change lives. In this powerful blog, Michelle opens up about delayed diagnosis, sensory overwhelm, masking, and what it took—physically and emotionally—to finish her first world-ranked tournament. Her story reminds us that success and struggle often walk hand in hand.

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“Only The Best Will Do” – Ed Baxter on Autism, Swimming, and Challenging Expectations

Ed Baxter is a former British record-holding swimmer and co-founder of the AP Race Club with Adam Peaty. Diagnosed with Autism at a young age, Ed speaks openly about how his neurodivergence shaped his elite swimming career and entrepreneurial journey. In this in-depth interview, Ed shares his coaching philosophy, challenges in sport, and why pushing limits—not lowering expectations—is key to success for all athletes.

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