Independent Study

Isabella Boehm ’26 explores neurodivergence in athletes

Neurodivergence is becoming increasingly relevant in discussions of diversity and inclusion. Neurodivergence refers to differences in brain function and processing that can result in a range of unique neurotypes, including autism, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), dyslexia, and others. These conditions are often misunderstood or stigmatized, making it difficult for neurodivergent individuals to navigate the world around them. Depending on how the term neurodivergent is defined, between 10 and 30 percent of the population has a neurodivergent trait according to the American Enterprise Institute.

Isabella Boehm ’26 learned she was neurodivergent at the age of six. Through an independent study project at Northwood, she has worked to learn more about neurodivergence, inform others, and perform to her best abilities as a member of the girls’ hockey team and in all aspects of life.

She has pursued traditional research on the subject, but it is her own experiences that have formed the basis for her understanding of her neurotype.

“I play ice hockey, so it was important to me to recognize that I might think or perform differently, but people with neurodivergence bring just as much to the table as anyone else,” Isabella explains. “A lot of coaches are not aware of neurodivergence, so I teach them about that part of me and what makes me perform better.” She gives examples such as the need for heightened positive reinforcement and the “bodies in motion” technique, which involves action drills to calm and accommodate her brain that sometimes races ahead.

Isabella cites a lengthy list of successful athletes with neurodivergence, including Olympic gymnast, Simone Biles, professional soccer player, Lionel Messi, and NHL player, Linus Soderstrom, who credits hockey with providing focus, goals, and success in mediating his neurodivergence. The most successful Olympian of all time, Michael Phelps, shared how his neurodivergence empowered him, “I could go fast in the pool, it turned out, in part because being in the pool slowed down my mind. In the water, I felt, for the first time, in control.”

Isabella’s experience has been similar, “I chose hockey because it gives me pleasure, excitement, and drive. I’m a very competitive person, so hockey gives me the opportunity to compete and be on a team with friends and have all these experiences.”

Learning about neurodivergence has allowed Isabella to become a better student, more effective athlete, and is paving the way to a potential professional career. “This began as a humanities project, but now I’m passionate about learning more and sharing what I learn with others. One of my career goals is to become a hockey coach at the collegiate or professional level to help coach, grow, and develop athletes who have neurodivergence.”