“Each Athlete Is Very Different, and This Is Why I’m Still Learning Every Day”: Experiences of Coaching Elite Athletes With Intellectual Disability and/or Autism

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of coaches working at the elite level with athletes with intellectual disabilities (ID) and/or autism. Moreover, the existing gaps in knowledge and skills necessary for effective coaching were explored. Semistructured interviews and focus groups were conducted with 24 coaches (14 males and 10 females) from 11 different nationalities, all of whom coached athletes with ID and/or autism competing in elite-level competitions. The interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. The results highlighted the complexities of coaching athletes with ID and/or autism and challenges at interpersonal, environmental/policy, sport-specific, and elite competition levels. Furthermore, the findings support the need for specialised coach education and adequate support for coaches working with athletes with ID and/or autism at the elite level. These insights can inform the development of resources that aim to equip coaches with knowledge and strategies to potentially enhance coaching practices and improve performance in athletes with ID and/or autism.