Australian Football League continues to lead in supporting neurodiversity
The Australian Football League and the Australian Football League Players Association continues to lead in embracing and supporting neurodivergence of the men and women’s players. This was exemplified in the recent dedicated neurodiversity panel session during the annual AFL Wellbeing and Player Development Gathering.
The 2025 event was held at Marvel Stadium, Melbourne in August and brought together 170 talent pathways, AFL and AFLW Club, AFLPA and AFL team members whose roles are dedicated to player wellbeing and development.
Erin was invited to join the panel discussion, alongside Dr Samantha McLeod (Sport Psychologist, Richmond Football Club), Sam Lonergan (Head of Development, Richmond Football Club), and facilitated by AFL Head of Mental Health and Wellbeing Dr Kate Hall.
“The significance of centralizing the topic of neurodiversity in this highly influential group embedded throughout the football system who are on the ground supporting athletes, cannot be overstated” said Erin.
“During my time in the AFLW system, I benefited from the wealth of supports and inclusive practices at the heart of the Women’s game. It is an incredible testament to inclusive leadership this session was held, to which the players will benefit.”
The panel titled ‘Understanding Neurodiversity in Elite Contexts’ discussed the importance of terminology, what gaps remained to date, and specific examples and guidance to clubs commencing their journey towards embedding neurodiversity.
It builds upon the AFL’s recent leadership in highlighting the ways in which neurodivergent athletes are supported throughout the system.
“This collective sharing of insights and committing to new inclusive ways of supporting athletes, is incredibly promising.”
