Tonight’s Chadron State College basketball games will be the schools first Neurodiversity Awareness games, raising awareness of the issue while creating a more comfortable environment for those with sensory challenges.
Co-organizer and CSC head volleyball coach Jennifer Stadler says the play on the court will be unchanged, but the fan experience in the Chicoine Center will be different in an attempt to make it a more enjoyable experience for those with sensory challenges.
Stadler says Neurodiversity refers to those with autism spectrum disorder, as well as other neurological and developmental conditions such as ADHD or learning disabilities who often have a sensitivity to loud or sudden noises and bright or flashing lights.
She says a lot of people and families are affected by sensory sensitivities and often struggle to find suitable recreational activities for their loved ones. CSC will try to do that tonight with minimal impact to the enjoyment of other fans.
Stadler says the noise level will be reduced, in-game flashing videos will be eliminated, and the arena lighting will be dimmed – all in an effort to create a more sensory-friendly atmosphere.
CSC is also setting up a “sensory safe room” in the Chicoine offices where spectrum guests and others with special needs and their families can watch the game on monitors.