Dwarf Sports Association UK

The DSAUK organises and supports a diverse array of sports tailored to the needs and interests of its members.

From traditional sports such as basketball, football, and athletics to niche activities like boccia, swimming, and powerlifting, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, the association offers coaching, training camps, and access to specialized equipment to help participants maximize their potential and achieve their sporting goals.
Beyond sports, the DSAUK is actively involved in advocacy, education, and awareness-raising initiatives aimed at challenging stereotypes, promoting diversity, and fostering greater understanding and acceptance of individuals with dwarfism within society. Through its outreach efforts, the association strives to break down barriers, combat discrimination, and create a more inclusive and equitable world for people of all heights.
Primary Settings
- At Every Stage information guide: A health, wellbeing, sport and activity resource to offer advice and recommendations to schools and teachers supporting students with dwarfism during their time in education, from early years to secondary education.
- DSAuk “Do Something Amazing” Schools Presentation: DSAuk offer their engaging presentation, tailored to suit audiences in schools, colleges, universities and community groups, about living with dwarfism and taking part in sport and recreational activity. Presented and delivered by members of DSAuk, audiences are offered an insight into dwarf conditions, living with dwarfism, positively accessing education, sport and physical activity and the sport, activities and support network offered by DSAuk.
Secondary Settings
Secondary Schools can have access to our coaching guide within our resources section on our website. This page highlights several sports that individuals with dwarfism partake in and include safe alternatives for sports which could cause injury. Below are two resources which are available.
- Dwarfism and Gymnastics: This resource has been developed to help schools include children within their schools partake in gymnastics-based lessons in a safe way.
- Dwarfism Badminton: Within inclusive badminton, short stature players can play within inclusive and non-disabled environments with minimal adaptations to play.
Equipment Needed
Majority of Sports won’t need alternative equipment but will just require alternative coaching methods when needed. For example, in gymnastics. Recommended equipment to have readily available for sessions are:
- Stools
- Shorter shafted badminton rackets/junior rackets
- Possible lower height badminton nets for junior players
- Smaller size ¾ footballs
- Smaller Basketballs and adjustable baskets