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How to support players with Down’s syndrome

Here, we explain what Down’s syndrome is and how coaches can support players who have it.

Communications and relationships
Disability football
England Football Learning logo on a red background.

England Football Learning

2 mins - May 17, 2024

Down’s syndrome is a genetic condition. It’s caused by an extra chromosome. This has a range of effects. People with Down’s syndrome tend to experience learning disabilities, speech issues, poor muscle tone, loose joints, and problems with sight and hearing.  

 

All people with Down’s syndrome have some level of learning disability. In fact, Down’s syndrome is the most common genetic cause of learning disability.  


Some people also have challenges with communication. Their speech can be harder to understand. It can also take them longer to process information and reply. To help with this, some people with Down’s syndrome use a signing system alongside speech. 

Many people with Down’s syndrome also have a hearing impairment. And nearly all of them have problems with their vision. Even if they don’t need glasses, the world lacks fine details and sharp contrast.  

Low muscle tone and hypermobility (loose joints) can also be an issue. This can make people with Down’s syndrome get tired quicker. And because their necks can be less stable, they should not head the ball. 

These are just a few key differences that we’ve highlighted. So, if you want to find out more, download this PDF. It has loads of key information and tips to help you support players with Down's syndrome.  

But remember, no two people with Down’s syndrome are the same. Get to know them. Understand what motivates them. Find out how their condition affects them and what support they might need.
But remember, no two people with Down’s syndrome are the same. Get to know them. Understand what motivates them. Find out how their condition affects them and what support they might need.
Adapt sessions with the STEP framework (Youth Sports Trust, 2002). Space: Consider the size of area used. A big pitch may cause fatigue due to the impact of hypotonia and hypermobility on increased energy expenditure. Task: Prevent heading of the ball. Include positive and interactive tasks. Equipment: Accompany verbal instructions with demonstrations, visual aids, whiteboards, or flashcards. Ensure there’s a strong contrast between the colour of the ball, the pitch surface, and any surrounding walls (if indoors). Players: Small-sided games such as 2v2, 3v3, 4v4 are a great way to keep players moving and engaged.
Adapt sessions with the STEP framework (Youth Sports Trust, 2002). Space: Consider the size of area used. A big pitch may cause fatigue due to the impact of hypotonia and hypermobility on increased energy expenditure. Task: Prevent heading of the ball. Include positive and interactive tasks. Equipment: Accompany verbal instructions with demonstrations, visual aids, whiteboards, or flashcards. Ensure there’s a strong contrast between the colour of the ball, the pitch surface, and any surrounding walls (if indoors). Players: Small-sided games such as 2v2, 3v3, 4v4 are a great way to keep players moving and engaged.

Here are five top tips to help you support players with Down’s syndrome: 

  • Whenever you give instructions, wait ten seconds for them to be processed.  
  • Break down complex skills into simple steps. Link the steps together. Avoid practices that rely on writing and maths skills.  
  • Face the person you’re speaking to. Reduce background noise, make visuals big and bold, and write things down in a simple way. 
  • Use a visual timetable. Things like structure boards, now and next, and a traffic light system can be helpful.
  • Make sure that the venue is well-lit. Players with Down’s syndrome might have trouble focusing clearly.  

If you haven’t already, download this PDF for more information on how to support players with Down’s syndrome. It’s a handy resource to take with you to training.  

And if you want to find out more about Down’s syndrome or disability football, check out these useful links:  

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