Best Practices for Modern Language for Ability
United Adaptive Soccer Association
Summary
This resource provides practical guidance for using inclusive, respectful, and empowering language when referring to individuals with disabilities in the soccer community. It emphasizes the importance of word choice in shaping culture, influencing perceptions, and fostering belonging. Topics include person-first vs. identity-first language, avoiding ableist or stigmatizing terms, and focusing on athletes’ skills and achievements rather than disability.
HOW AND WHEN IT CAN HELP
- To educate staff, coaches, referees, and volunteers on inclusive communication.
- As a reference when developing club/league communications, policies, or marketing.
- To train young athletes and parents about respectful language and culture.
- When seeking to align organizational practices with broader DEI goals.
WHAT WE LIKE ABOUT THIS RESOURCE
It offers clear, real-world examples of how to reframe language, with practical applications to everyday soccer environments. The emphasis on respecting individual preferences helps teams, clubs and organizations to foster authenticity and inclusion.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS WHEN USING THIS RESOURCE
- Always confirm individual preferences for person-first or identity-first language.
- Avoid euphemisms (e.g., “special needs”) and focus on accurate, respectful terms.
- Normalize inclusive language by embedding it into daily operations and materials.
ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR
The United Adaptive Soccer Association (UASA) provides resources, advocacy, and programming to ensure soccer is inclusive and accessible to individuals of all abilities. UASA partners with Disability Soccer Organizations and community stakeholders to create safe, equitable, and welcoming environments for athletes. To learn more visit unitedadaptivesoccer.com
CREDITING CONTRIBUTORS
The Resource Hub is made possible by the generosity of contributors. It demonstrates the rich expertise and collective team spirit that exists across our soccer community.
All resources that have been contributed to the Resource Hub are free for users of the Hub to learn from, adapt and implement in their own organization and community.
Where relevant, we encourage users of the resources to formally or informally credit the resource creator, to acknowledge their expertise and generosity.