How Natasha Stasiuk Plays Competitive Golf with Autism While Deepening Her Bond with Her Dad

Overview

Natasha Stasiuk is a rising force in adaptive golf with a calm presence, strategic mind, and unwavering connection to the sport—and to her father, who is also her caddy. Diagnosed with autism at age 22, Natasha didn't let a late diagnosis stop her from redefining her relationship with golf. Instead, it became the key to unlocking a clearer understanding of herself and her potential as a competitor.

Background

Natasha discovered golf as a child, playing with her dad on public courses near home. The game quickly became a space where she felt focused, relaxed, and understood—long before she had words for why. Her father’s presence, both as a teacher and later as her tournament caddy, helped deepen her passion and her poise under pressure.

The Challenge

Golf, especially at a competitive level, requires mental clarity, social navigation, and emotional regulation—skills that can be more complex for autistic athletes. Natasha navigated years of competition before receiving her formal diagnosis, often sensing she approached the game differently than her peers but unable to explain why.

The Approach

After being diagnosed with autism at 22, Natasha says it was like a puzzle piece clicked into place. Understanding her neurodivergence allowed her to lean into her strengths—intense focus, a preference for routine, and a deep internal sense of strategy. She and her dad created pre-shot routines that work with her processing style and use visual patterns to anchor her on the course.

The Results

Since integrating self-understanding into her game, Natasha has continued to rise in adaptive golf circles. She’s competed nationally and internationally and become a role model for other neurodiverse athletes. Her ability to remain calm under pressure, stay organized, and play with purpose has only strengthened.

Key Takeaways

Self-awareness is a performance tool. Understanding her autism gave Natasha an edge in managing her mindset and game.
Family support is foundational. Her dad’s dual role as caddy and emotional anchor has made competition more accessible.
Golf can be highly inclusive—when we allow players to adapt the game to their minds and bodies.