The Heart of Inclusive Sport: Reflections of an Inclusion Coach
Kelly Hamlyn
Sport4All Sport Inclusion Coach - South Australia
A Glimpse: Inclusion Coach in action
The opportunity to present the Sport4All program to the staff at Tennis SA was both an honour and a challenge. The passion I hold for this program, and the shared enthusiasm from the Tennis SA staff, created a perfect environment for meaningful discussion.
The Personal and Professional Intertwined
Presenting in such a safe environment is a gift for any presenter, but for myself, as someone who is neurodiverse, it’s a game changer! The presentation elicited a physiological response; my heart rate surged past 100 bpm and stayed there. The struggle to regulate my emotions is a constant companion. The aftermath of such an event often feels like a marathon, necessitating time and space for recovery. This personal experience underscores the importance of understanding and accommodating neurodiversity, not just in sport but in all aspects of life.
Short of avoiding interactions that will cause emotional dysregulation, I can not avoid these physiological responses. I must allow myself space to recover, I can’t just push through the next day. As a parent this presents further challenges as I can’t just take the time I need; though it does provide me with the opportunity to model the importance of self awareness and self care to my boys.
Unconscious Bias: A Shared Exploration
The workshop delved into unconscious bias, using the stereotype associated with autism as a starting point. The interactive nature of the session allowed for open dialogue and personal reflection. Through shared experiences, we discovered commonalities in our routines and their significance. The exploration extended to sport, highlighting the role of routines in creating control and confidence. The example of Rafa Nadal’s routines further illustrated how unconscious bias can shape our perceptions.
Welcoming Behaviours: Beyond the Surface
The concept of welcoming behaviours was brought to life through a comparative analysis of Grand Slam Instagram pages. The subtle differences in colour schemes, representation of people with disability, and focus on the men’s game sparked a discussion on the impact of imagery. It emphasised the importance of creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels represented and welcome.
Universal Design: A Cultural Shift
The conversation around universal design transcended the physical environment. It highlighted the need for flexibility and options to accommodate diverse needs. The example of open-plan offices versus private spaces illustrated how a universally designed culture can benefit everyone, regardless of their individual challenges. The goal is to create spaces where everyone feels included and supported, without the need for special accommodations.
The Value of Inclusion
The presentation served as a reminder that inclusion is not just about accommodating disability; it’s about creating spaces and places for everyone, at all times. As we age, the likelihood of identifying as having a disability increases. An inclusive approach ensures that everyone can continue to access and enjoy the spaces they love, regardless of life’s challenges.
The Inclusion Coach's Role
My experience as an Inclusion Coach goes beyond delivering presentations. It’s about fostering understanding, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for a universally designed world. It’s about recognising the value of diversity and creating environments where everyone can thrive. The personal challenges I face serve as a constant reminder of the importance of this work and the impact it can have on individuals and communities.
The reflections I’ve shared in this blog post highlight the significant impact that we, as Inclusion Coaches, have in shaping perceptions, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a deeper understanding of inclusion. Our lived experiences with disability bring an authenticity and depth to our work, allowing us to connect with individuals and organisations on a personal and meaningful level.
Through workshops, presentations, and ongoing support, we empower sporting communities to embrace diversity and create opportunities for everyone. We facilitate meaningful conversations, challenge unconscious biases, and champion the principles of universal design. Our unwavering dedication to creating a level playing field ensures that everyone has the chance to experience the joy and benefits of sport.
I love being a part of Sport4All because we stand for a world where sport is truly for everyone, regardless of ability. We believe in the power of sport to transform lives, build communities, and foster a sense of belonging. And we’re committed to making that vision a reality, one inclusive step at a time.
Get the Sport4All news sent to your inbox. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter!
"*" indicates required fields
