Autism Spectrum Disorder and Youth Sports: The Role of the Sports Manager and Coach

Abstract

The number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is rapidly increasing throughout the United States. This increase also has an impact on participation in local community programs such as youth sports and recreational activities. The administrators of these agencies and departments will be required to develop and implement programs that meet the needs of the children and families affected by ASD. Certain programs are designated as therapeutic recreation programs, with the specific structure and resources to support and provide activities for children with special needs. However, private and municipal youth leagues for soccer, baseball, and basketball generally focus on serving the general public without the resources and specific means to address the needs of children affected by ASD. The purpose of this article is to focus on the sport and recreation programs that are not considered therapeutic recreation programs.