Building Inclusive Coach Development Pathways Across Irish Sport

Rowing Ireland has recently shared findings from our Neurodivergence in Sports Coaches research with 20 National Governing Bodies (NGBs) through the Sport Ireland Coaching NGB Coaching Development Officer (CDO) Network.

The research, led by Rowing Ireland Coach Developer Jo Aungiers, explores how coach education systems can better recognise diverse ways of thinking, reduce unnecessary barriers, and create environments where all coaches can thrive. The findings were received very positively, prompting strong discussion on how coach development can become more inclusive across Irish sport.

Neurodivergence is common. When coach development environments are clearer, more flexible, and more predictable, the benefits extend well beyond neurodivergent coaches. Improved wellbeing, stronger retention, and better coaching experiences can be felt by everyone involved.

Since spring 2025, the project gathered lived experiences from coaches across multiple sports through interviews and focus groups. Themes included communication, learning preferences, confidence, motivation and burnout, and assessment, alongside important insights on neurodivergence in women.

The research also highlighted strengths neurodivergent coaches often bring, including creativity, pattern recognition, attention to detail, hyperfocus, empathy, and problem-solving.

Practical takeaways for coach education (changes that can start now):

· Explicit expectations: clear goals, timelines, and examples (avoid vague phrases).

· Predictable processes: transparent routines and advance notice of changes.

· Direct, respectful language: normalise clarifying questions and “say what you mean” communication.

· Shared interpretation: check understanding using written summaries, visual supports, and examples.

Rowing Ireland is already applying these insights through ongoing course reviews, improved pre-course information, changes to course delivery (both online and in person), and more flexible learning supports for coaches.

If you would like to support this work, request resources, or explore neuro-inclusive approaches within your club or NGB setting, please contact Gerry Farrell at coacheducation@rowingireland.ie.

“I felt instantly very relaxed and could open up easily… I think it is something that can be changed.”