Reach Every Athlete: A Guide to Coaching Players with Hidden Disabilities and Conditions

Book excerpt: Published in partnership with SHAPE America, Reach Every Athlete: A Guide to Coaching Players with Hidden Disabilities and Conditions guides coaches in working with athletes with disabilities that are not apparent based on physical features and athletic capabilities. Referred to as hidden disabilities or conditions (HDCs), there are athletes with a Specific Learning Disability (e.g. dyslexia), Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), as well sensory and physical impairments that may not be obvious, yet still impact performance. Reach Every Athlete is ideal for coaches at all levels who may knowingly, or unknowingly, have an athlete on their team with an HDC. It helps clarify the core symptoms and impact, as well as provides coaching tips and best practices. This guide is also useful to others invested in maximizing the sport experience for athletes, including parents and caregivers, athletic administrators, coach educators, and sport psych