ADHD and Athletics: How Untapped Learning Helps Student-Athletes Thrive
During a recent trip to Colorado, I had the opportunity to visit the offices of Untapped Learning in Broomfield and tour the nearby Sport Stable in Superior with founder and Chief Innovation Officer Brandon Slade. What they are building there is something every family with a student-athlete should know about.
Supporting the Whole Student-Athlete
Untapped Learning focuses on helping students—especially student-athletes with ADHD or executive functioning challenges — unlock their potential in school, sports, and life. Their team provides specialized coaching to help students develop critical executive functioning skills, including organization, time management, goal setting, emotional regulation, and accountability.
For student-athletes juggling demanding training schedules, travel, and academic expectations, these skills are essential. Many of the athletes working with Untapped Learning are highly capable but struggle with consistency, focus, or follow-through—common challenges for students with ADHD. Through structured coaching and mentorship, Untapped Learning helps these students build systems that showcase their talent and work ethic.
Why ADHD Should Not Carry a Stigma
One of the most powerful messages from my visit was the importance of removing the stigma around ADHD.
Too often, ADHD is framed only as a deficit. But in many cases—especially in athletics—it can come with strengths such as creativity, high energy, resilience, hyperfocus on passions, and an ability to think differently under pressure. When students learn how their brains work and develop strategies to manage challenges, ADHD can become a powerful advantage rather than a limitation.
The key is providing the right tools early.
Students who understand how to manage executive functioning demands in high school are far better prepared for the independence of college life—whether they plan to compete in college athletics or simply pursue their academic goals.
A Model Built Around Student-Athletes
Untapped Learning’s presence at Sport Stable reflects their commitment to meeting athletes where they already train and compete. The environment brings together coaching, academic development, and athletic performance in one ecosystem designed to support the whole person—not just the athlete.
For families navigating ADHD, this kind of integrated support can be transformational. When student-athletes learn to build structure, manage their time, and advocate for themselves, they gain skills that will serve them far beyond the playing field.
Final Thoughts
As someone who works closely with student-athletes and their families during the college recruiting process, I see firsthand how executive functioning skills can shape long-term success. Organizations like Untapped Learning are doing important work by helping students better understand their strengths and develop strategies that allow them to thrive.
Removing the stigma around ADHD isn’t just about changing language—it’s about recognizing potential and giving students the tools they need to unlock it.
Additional Resources
https://www.thestudentathleteadvisors.com/blog/support-for-student-athletes-who-learn-differently