Inclusivity means different things to different people, but for me, it’s about creating an environment where any person – no matter their abilities, background or starting point – can get involved in sport. It’s not just about participation; it’s about making sure the...
Understanding individual needs is absolutely key in inclusive coaching. For me, it all starts with getting to know each participant on a personal level – learning about their unique challenges, whether that’s a disability, a specific learning need or something else...
One of the most powerful realisations I’ve had as a coach is that behaviour is a form of communication. When someone is acting out or struggling to engage, it’s not just bad behaviour – it’s them trying to tell us something. So rather than jumping straight to...
Inclusion really starts with us as coaches – it’s a mindset before anything else. We have to be willing to check our own biases and reflect on how they might be showing up in our sessions. It’s about being open to learning, unlearning and constantly evolving in the...
We often think inclusivity is about big actions – celebrations, policies, bold statements… however, it’s often the quiet moments that matter the most: the way you greet someone by name, how you check in after a tough session, the space you hold for someone to just be...
Sometimes, they don’t need an answer – they just need to be heard. As coaches, we often want to solve problems right away. But sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is just listen. I’ve had players open up about frustrations, fears or just a bad day. I’ve...
