Football is the perfect game for people of all abilities, including those who are neurodiverse. Join our soccer school and play football to help improve your mental health. Learn how football suits the neurodiverse, including famous footballers John O’Kane and Lionel Messi, who both are on the spectrum.
Football can play a huge role in helping those with neurodivergent conditions to make sense of everyday events that come naturally to neurotypical children. At Halliford Colts FC, we understand the importance of play and exercise for everyone – especially those with different ways of thinking or perceiving their environment – and how this can help them improve their mental health.
Whether your child is neurodiverse or not, playing football can benefit all children in many ways, from the basics of hand-eye coordination right through to strategic planning.
The Benefits of Football for Neurodiverse Players
Football provides a safe and structured environment where those who are neurodiverse can feel included and accepted for who they are. It helps them develop their social skills, learn how to play as part of a team and gain self-confidence.
Football also encourages the neurodiverse to use their strengths and challenges them to work on areas where they may need extra support.
What are Neurodivergent Conditions?
Neurodivergent conditions refer to various mental health issues such as autism, ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, hyperactive behaviour and Tourette’s Syndrome. These conditions can affect how a person perceives their environment and interacts with others.
Until fairly recently, a child who identifies as neurodiverse was not encouraged by the state schooling system to engage in team sports such as football. However, due to a greater awareness of the benefits that playing football can provide for these individuals, more soccer schools are now offering support to those with neurodiverse conditions.
Evidence shows that regular participation in team sports greatly benefits individuals and those around them, helping them reach their full potential and participate actively in the community.
Famous Footballers Who May Be Neurodiverse
Few football players have openly discussed their neurodivergent conditions. The media has widely reported that Lionel Messi has ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)and possibly Asperger’s Syndrome.
John O’Kane, the former Manchester United player, has also revealed that he is on the autism spectrum. He received his diagnosis after he had retired from football, but he now helps to raise awareness by sharing his story with others.
David Beckham has OCD and has spoken about the fact that his OCD made him a compulsive perfectionist, spending hours refining his goal-scoring techniques.
Being neurodiverse is a gift that football can play a hugely beneficial role in the lives of those who have it. Football often requires an alternative way of thinking and perceiving, which can greatly benefit those with neurodivergent conditions.
With the proper support, football can help unlock their potential and play an integral role in their journey to becoming successful team players.
The Mental and Physical Health Benefits of Football for Children
Football is for everyone, no matter their ability, and it is an excellent way for children to stay active and play in an encouraging environment. It helps children build confidence, learn about teamwork and develop motor skills.
Regular physical activity can positively impact mental health, reducing stress levels and helping to cope with difficult emotions such as anger, frustration and loneliness.
At Halliford Colts FC, we understand the importance of play and exercise for everyone – especially those with different ways of thinking or perceiving their environment. Our professional coaches are experienced in working with children of all abilities and can provide additional support for those needing it.
Join the Haliford Colts Soccer School
The Halliford Colts Soccer School offers a fun and safe play environment for children of all ages. With experienced coaches and friendly team members, we provide unique programmes tailored to each individual’s needs and abilities.
Our football sessions help improve communication skills, build confidence, increase physical activity levels and play an essential role in the mental well-being of our players. We encourage everyone – no matter their ability – to play football and experience the many benefits that it can have for their mental and physical health.
An All-Ages Football Club in Surrey
Halliford Colts FC is a great place for children to play football and improve their skills. Our all-ages football club (4-16) welcomes all genders; the more diverse, the better the game will become in supporting everyone who doesn’t identify as neurotypical.
We aim to provide a fun, accepting and challenging play environment for children of all ages and abilities. Football is for everyone, and we hope to play a positive role in their development.
So join us at the Halliford Colts Soccer School or one of our Teams and participate in something special! We look forward to welcoming you soon. If you have any questions in the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected].