Join us in conversation with Matt Smith, Development and Learning Manager, Caragh McMurtry, CEO of Neurodiverse Sport, and Lesley Crocker, Tennis Manager of the South Devon Tennis Centre, as we discuss the different aspects of neurodiversity and share practical strategies to support neurodivergent players in your coaching programme.
This session aligns with the 2025 National Inclusion Week, taking place from Monday 15th to Sunday 21st September, and aims at helping coaches to gain a greater understanding of the existing barriers for neurodiverse players and how to make sessions more inclusive and welcoming to them.
According to the NHS England, it is estimated that 1 in 7 people are neurodiverse, although with an increase in awareness and late diagnosis this is likely to be higher (NHS England - Neurodiversity).
Caragh McMurtry, former Olympic rower who represented Great Britain at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, brings a deeply personal perspective. Her journey was marked by personal challenges, including misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder, and then a late diagnosis of autism, along with suspected ADHD. This turning point led her found Neurodiverse Sport, non-profit organisation, through which Caragh works to dismantle misconceptions about neurodiversity, especially in performance environments.
Lesley Crocker brings her extensive experience as Level 3 Coach and General Manager at the South Devon Tennis Centre, where she has championed inclusive tennis programmes, including 'Smashing Spectrum', launched in 2025. This initiative supports children diagnosed with autism or on the autism diagnostic pathway to be in tennis settings not overstimulating for them.
If you're looking to gain a greater understanding of neurodiversity and tips from experts in the space, this webinar is a must-watch!
Zoom Classroom
Virtual Session
The LTA is the national governing body for tennis in Great Britain, and its mission is to get more people play tennis more often. The LTA focuses on a number of key areas of work which include coach development, competition and major events, high performance support, officiating and participation support among others.
The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) provides online educational courses for coaches, officials and other tennis stakeholders. Content is developed, delivered and authored by the LTA.