30 Jan 10 Inspirational Athletes with Autism
Brooklyn Letters
1139 Prospect Avenue, Brooklyn
-
We would highly recommend Ally! Our son always asks about her, so very thankful to Brooklyn Letters for introducing us.
~ Emily, mom of Brooklyn 2 year old -
Nicole has been an amazing therapist!! She played a tremendous role in our daughter’s speech progress and overall development. She has come such a long way and we are so happy with the therapy she received!
-
I cannot express how grateful and rewarding my experience with Brooklyn Letters has been. Her tutor Ms. Daria is so knowledgeable, amazing, kind and awesome. My daughter has made so much progress in Literacy and Math and it's all … More thanks to Ms. Daria. I know my daughter is sad that she can no longer work with Ms. Daria, as she looked forward to their sessions every week. Thank you again!
-
Excellent services, caring therapists.
-
Christina was absolutely wonderful. She went out of her way to win my son over and it worked. He looked forward to her visits and his speech improved so much under her care. She was super flexible and it’s clear she truly cares. We adore … More Christina and we’re going to miss her. Almost sad he improved so much! She’s simply amazing and we can’t say enough how great she is. I would recommend her services to anyone and everyone, without hesitation. Thank you so much for connecting us with her!
-
We could not be happier with the services Valerie provided! She is very thoughtful and knowledgeable and provided significant guidance to support our daughter's speech development outside of our scheduled sessions. She established … More a great working relationship with her, and she will definitely be missed! Your business model is amazing and it was an absolute pleasure working with Valerie. I've referred your organization and Valerie to the Executive Director of our daughter's school and friends/colleagues who are in need of speech therapy services.
-
We cannot say enough good things about Effie, the ASL teacher, who was so engaged and effective with our 2 year old daughter from the very first session! Effie gladly included our whole family in the sessions! Her expertise and fantastic … More personality gave our daughter a way to communicate that she was so desperately seeking. The coordinators at Brooklyn Letters were so helpful and communicative…I would highly recommend their services!
-
The company is great with outstanding customer service. They keep my horses protected. I have recommended them to other horses trainers as well that are going to get service early next year. Very professional an honest too. Respectfully … More submitted Christopher
-
Ron and Ken did a fantastic job with our security system today. Installed everything very quick. Both of them were very polite and asked us throughout if the installation met our needs. Simply fantastic!
-
I called Cornerstone Protection to get a Security system at a relatives out of state property, within a week it was installed! The installers worked with the client to help understand her new system and she was happy! Our relative said … More they were courteous, professional and patient! I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection for all of your security needs!
-
Had blink cameras; Car was broken into multiple times so I called CornerStone & they were able to install multiple cameras very quickly & for a reasonable price. I am so happy with the app & getting alerts that are not superfluous, … More like they were with Blink. Highly recommend CornerStone & the tech Ronnie.
-
Ron and Ken are great guys to work with.
Both were very knowledgeable and got our system back up and running.
Thanks to both for a job well done... -
Samantha Dalmas was fantastic! We saw her for a feeding therapy evaluation and while she doesn’t think my daughter needs more feeding therapy sessions at this time, but she gave me lots of tips to try. If my daughter's doctors want … More to see more progress at her next appointment, I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to Samantha again.
-
Amazing assistance provided by Shannon today on my security system. I’m so grateful for your prompt, efficient, professional, and courteous service. Put me down as a customer for life!
-
One of the most painless experiences I've had. They came on time and was over the moon professional with still keeping a level of personability to it. The gentleman also went out of his way to say that my husband and Mines business … More was appreciated. Which is actually rare to be appreciated by such a great company. So thank you and we look forward to continuing services with this company.
-
I am so happy we decided to go with cornerstone. They were quick and efficient. Shannon and the installer we very friendly. We got a lot of equipment and it was still within our budget. 10/10 would definitely recommend! Thank you
-
Love the customer service and Shanon and his team go above and beyond for my restaurant. Couldn't of asked for a better security system and level of service that his team provides.
-
I have been using Cornerstone Protection service for over 5 years and I'm really happy with the service and state-of-the-art equipments and it's futures are so much in advance and friendly, I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection … More Service any and all business that need a security protection days and nights specially after business hours(Cornerstone Protection is perfect solution for your business). Owner of Cornerstone Protection is proactive with their customers and their equipments. Good experienced with Cornerstone Protection!!!
Kanu Patel -
We had a very positive experience with Alissa as a tutor for our pod of 5th grade boys from January - June 2020. She cared a lot about the boys and worked hard to create meaningful activities for them. The pod experience was invaluable … More for all of our families during a difficult year and we were so grateful to have found this partnership! We also want to appreciate Craig for helping to match us with a tutor on very short notice after we had cycled through a few folks who were not able to see the commitment through. Thanks for sticking with us!
-
Dusty was the exact person we needed to help our child finish out the school year. So grateful to him for the way he steadily encouraged her and helped her stay on track and organized. He is flexible, responsive to our needs/schedule as … More a family, and a delight to be with. We are also thankful that Craig at Themba Tutors really "gets it" and partnered us with such a wonderful tutor who was a great fit for our girl.
-
My child worked with Gillian D virtually for math enrichment. She is an excellent teacher. She took time to understand my child's specific learning style and provided tools that would be engaging. She was kind and empathetic- really … More made it her goal to connect with my child and build trust and rapport. My child started the school year with confidence and without the typically "brain-drain" that occurs over the summer, thanks to Gillian.
-
I am going into my second year as a Themba tutor. I have met so many great individuals while working for this company. Craig and the rest of the Themba team do such an excellent job picking and choosing Themba tutors that suit each client's … More individual needs! I look forward to meeting new tutors and clients in the 2021-2022 school year!
-
Our son started in a new high school, 100% remote, and was really struggling with Latin and Physics. I found Themba Tudors online and had an initial call with Craig, who was very knowledgeable, responsive, and found 2 amazing tutors for … More us. Both the Latin and the physics tutors were fantastic, connected with my son really well and helped him go from 'failing' grade to 'honors'! I will for sure continue using (and recommending!) Themba Tutors. Thank you, C, K, and W!
-
Brian is a fantastic executive functioning coach. Super helpful, flexible with hours, and tailored the experience to our needs.
-
Giulia Mercuri is a great Italian tutor! She was very responsive and accessible. Giulia put a ton of effort into preparing for each session and really helped our son with test preparation and projects. We are grateful that she was able … More to help, especially since our son did not receive any live teaching during COVID. We are happy that she was referred to us!
-
As an adult student diagnosed with a learning disability during grad school, I knew I needed help dealing with my Master's program's demanding workload. I was seriously considering dropping out when I was referred to Themba Tutors. … More I was paired up with a wonderful tutor, Julie, who was a total lifesaver. I learned many techniques that I can utilize in the future as I embark on the next phase of my career.
I can wholeheartedly say after working with Themba for two years that I would not have finished my program without this organization. And I am so thankful I selected them. -
We were introduced to a wonderful tutor: Mcedwyn. He and our son, a freshman in college, worked well together. As a result, our son’s grades significantly improved. The tutor taught our son subject content and various methods to effectively … More study for quizzes and exams. Our son was also taught time management and organization. My son’s experience with the tutor made the first year of college a less intimidating experience.
-
We have been with our tutor, Cailin Schiller, for two years, from 5th - 7th grade. She started as an executive functioning tutor with my daughter. From the start, she demonstrated a depth of expertise and a selective use of techniques skillfully … More adapted to my daughter’s ADHD and Math disability. Cailin made Math accessible and understandable to her in a way that even her teachers had not been able to do. She differentiated reading, writing and math tasks and assignments to tailor them to my daughter’s unique learning differences. Not only did it have an effect on her grades and her work efficiency, but she finally could do her work with less anxiety. Even my daughter’s teachers used Cailin’s guidance to modify their work with her. But most importantly, she became my daughter’s favorite resource. I can’t say how invaluable Cailin has been to my daughter’s progress and well-being. I’d recommend her a million times over. She is a gem.
-
Victoria is a superb tutor. She helped my high school age daughter with her writing. Victoria's skills as a tutor, as well as her sense of humor and her engaging personality went a long way with my daughter.
-
Themba Tutors provided a leaning specialist that was a perfect fit for my daughter. I told them what we were looking for and they delivered. Our tutor is responsive and flexible and makes it easy for my daughter to reach out to her own … More her own, which gives her an added sense of responsibility over her learning. As a therapist myself, I now regularly recommend Themba to my patients. A much needed and well provided service to the community!!
-
The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
-
I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
-
We had a wonderful experience with our tutor Micaela. She helped our son not only academically but at every level. We will be forever grateful to have her in our lives.
-
The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
-
Paul Smith at Themba has been an exceptional tutor for my son, both in terms of teaching the subject matter and teaching how best to approach the process of learning math and executing assignments. We feel very fortunate to be working with … More Paul.
-
We were very lucky to have found Edwouine Swift, my son's therapist through Themba Tutors. Thomas is 12 years old, and it is extremely difficult to get him to write. Edwouine just works her magic with him, he adores her and is so … More eager to follow her guidance. I have no doubt she will be a positive driving force in his academic future.
10 INSPIRATIONAL ATHLETES WITH AUTISM:
Breaking Barriers in Sports
10 Athletes With Autism
As of 2024, autism prevalence in the United States continues to rise, with the national diagnosis rate ranging between 1.9% and 2.42%, depending on the state. Massachusetts has the highest recorded prevalence at 2.42%, followed closely by Virginia and Connecticut at 2.37%. Most states report autism rates between 2% and 2.42%, while Louisiana has the lowest documented rate at 1.9%.
Neurodivergent athletes have made significant contributions to the world of sports, defying stereotypes and inspiring individuals across the globe. Autism, often perceived as a limitation, has proven to be an asset for many athletes, giving them a unique perspective and a tenacious drive.
While sports environments can be challenging due to sensory processing and social interaction demands, many autistic individuals excel in athletics due to their focus, determination, and unique skill sets.
How Autism Benefits Athletes
- Intense Focus – Many autistic athletes have deep concentration, which helps in training and competition.
- Resilience and Routine – They thrive in structured environments and master repetitive skills efficiently.
- Unique Perspective – Their ability to see patterns and predict movements gives them an edge in certain sports.
However, challenges such as sensory sensitivities, communication barriers, social expectations, and more in team sports require understanding and adaptation.
Challenges Faced by Athletes with Autism
Despite their extraordinary achievements, athletes with autism often face unique challenges, including:
1. Sensory Sensitivities
Many autistic individuals experience heightened sensitivity to noise, lights, and physical sensations. For athletes, crowded stadiums, loud fans, and physical contact in sports can be overwhelming.
2. Communication and Social Interaction
Team sports require effective communication, which can be difficult for some autistic athletes. They may struggle with non-verbal cues, team strategies, or social bonding within their teams.
3. Anxiety and Mental Health Struggles
Routine disruptions, performance anxiety, and social expectations can create additional mental health challenges for neurodivergent athletes.
4. Stereotypes and Misconceptions
Many people still hold misconceptions about autism, assuming that autistic individuals cannot excel in physically demanding fields. These stereotypes can lead to exclusion or underestimation of their potential.
5. Barriers to Physical Activity Participation
Autistic youth, particularly those with mild intellectual disabilities, face additional obstacles in accessing and engaging in physical activity. Research indicates that these barriers can be both intrapersonal (internal) and interpersonal (external).
6. Limited Access to Specialized Training and Support
Many autistic athletes benefit from structured, routine-based training with clear instructions. However, a lack of specialized coaching and adaptive sports programs can limit their opportunities for skill development and competitive participation. Caregivers and individuals often struggle to find programs with adequately trained staff who understand their needs.
Below are ten remarkable athletes who have excelled in their respective sports while raising awareness and advocating for autism acceptance.
1. Clay Marzo – Surfing
Diagnosed with autism at 18, Clay Marzo is known for his exceptional and intuitive surfing style. His ability to read waves in a way that others cannot has led him to multiple championships, including winning the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) Open Men’s Championship. His success and advocacy efforts help inspire young surfers with autism.
Key Achievements:
- Winner of NSSA Open Men’s Championship
- Featured in the documentary Just Add Water
- Advocate for autism awareness through Surfers Healing
2. Anthony Ianni – Basketball
Anthony Ianni made history as the first known Division I college basketball player with autism. Playing for Michigan State University, Ianni contributed to the team’s success and has since become a public speaker and advocate, sharing his journey and promoting autism awareness.
Key Achievements:
- Played for Michigan State Spartans under Coach Tom Izzo
- Became a motivational speaker, inspiring young neurodivergent athletes
- Recognized as an advocate for autism inclusion in sports
3. Michael Brannigan – Track & Field
Michael “Mikey” Brannigan shattered expectations by becoming the first runner with autism to break the four-minute mile barrier. Competing at the highest levels, he won gold in the 1500 meters at the 2016 Rio Paralympics.
Key Achievements:
- Paralympic Gold Medalist (2016 Rio Paralympics)
- First runner with autism to break the four-minute mile
- Ambassador for athletes with disabilities in track & field
4. Reece Dunn – Swimming
Reece Dunn, a British Paralympic swimmer diagnosed with autism in his teens, has set multiple world records in para swimming. His dominance in the pool led him to win three gold medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
Key Achievements:
- Triple Gold Medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics
- Holds multiple world records in swimming
- Inspiration for neurodivergent athletes in aquatic sports
5. Marc Evers – Swimming
Diagnosed with autism at just two years old, Marc Evers proved doubters wrong by clinching gold medals at both the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Paralympics. His perseverance and achievements continue to inspire individuals with autism worldwide.
Key Achievements:
- Paralympic Champion in multiple swimming events
- Ambassador for autism awareness in sports
- Dutch National Hero in Paralympic swimming
6. Joe Barksdale – American Football
Former NFL offensive tackle Joe Barksdale played for the Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers, and Los Angeles Rams before discovering his autism diagnosis at 30. His journey is a testament to resilience, and he has since transitioned to a successful music career.
Key Achievements:
- NFL career spanning multiple teams
- Diagnosed with autism post-retirement, bringing attention to neurodivergence in contact sports
- Music artist and advocate for mental health awareness
7. Greg Halford – Football (Soccer)
Greg Halford, an English footballer known for his versatility on the field, publicly shared his autism diagnosis in his 30s, becoming one of the first professional soccer players to do so. His courage in embracing his neurodivergence has helped destigmatize autism in sports.
Key Achievements:
- Played for several English football clubs, including Nottingham Forest and Portsmouth
- Raised awareness about autism in professional soccer
- Continues to mentor young athletes with autism
8. Billy Mayfair – Golf
A five-time PGA Tour winner, Billy Mayfair was diagnosed with autism in 2019. His revelation shed light on autism in professional golf, where precision and focus are key attributes that often align with autistic traits.
Key Achievements:
- 5-time PGA Tour Champion
- Publicly announced autism diagnosis, promoting acceptance
- Continues to compete at a high level in professional golf
9. Safia Middleton-Patel – Football (Soccer)
A promising goalkeeper for Manchester United and the Wales national team, Middleton-Patel announced her autism diagnosis in 2023. She is an advocate for autism awareness, especially in women’s sports.
Key Achievements:
- Plays for Manchester United Women and Wales National Team
- Advocates for increased representation of autistic athletes in women’s sports
- Inspires young female athletes with autism
10. Caragh McMurtry – Rowing
A British Olympic rower who competed in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Caragh McMurtry was diagnosed with autism in adulthood. She co-founded Neurodiverse Sport, an initiative aimed at supporting neurodivergent athletes.
Key Achievements:
- Competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics
- Co-founded Neurodiverse Sport to promote inclusivity
- Speaker and advocate for autistic athletes in rowing
Autism and Athletic Strengths
Autistic athletes possess unique strengths that help them excel in sports. Their intense focus and dedication allow them to master their craft through disciplined training. Strong memory and pattern recognition skills enable them to analyze game strategies and opponents effectively. Many also bring creativity and innovative problem-solving approaches, giving them a competitive edge. Their preference for structure and routine fosters consistency in performance, while resilience and perseverance help them overcome challenges and societal misconceptions.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start small. Pick one AI tool this week and test it out. Whether it’s a simple calendar reminder, an AI-generated focus playlist, or an automatic note-taking app, even a tiny step forward can make a big difference. ADHD challenges don’t disappear overnight, but with the right tools, strategies, and mindset, you can create a system that works for you. Your future self will thank you!
Conclusion
The athletes featured in this article have not only excelled in their respective sports but have also shattered stereotypes and redefined what it means to be neurodivergent in athletics. Their stories serve as powerful reminders that autism is not a limitation but a unique perspective that, when nurtured, can lead to greatness.
By increasing awareness, creating supportive environments, and celebrating the achievements of autistic athletes, we can continue to break barriers and foster a more inclusive future in sports.
Check Out Our Other Blogs:
Craig Selinger
Latest posts by Craig Selinger (see all)
- Best 10 Math Programs for Homeschoolers - March 12, 2026
- Accountability Loops for College Students - February 16, 2026
- My Child Goes to an AI School in NYC — Why Do They Still Need ADHD Support? - February 15, 2026
No Comments