1. Showcase Your Skills
Compete in the Special Olympics if you are at least 8 years old and have an intellectual disability. Special Olympics athletes participate in intense and exciting competitions in more than 30 sporting events throughout 180 countries. From beginners to world-class athletes, competitors uplift, inspire and exemplify the true spirit of competition. With hours of physical training and unlimited determination, Special Olympics athletes persevere in spite of their disabilities and embody the spirit of real champions. Showcase your skills in your favorite Special Olympics sport every Winter and Summer season through local, state, national, regional and international competitions. Become a Special Olympics athlete and benefit physically, mentally and spiritually.
2. Find Your Forte
Enter competitions by yourself or join a team. The Special Olympics offers a wide selection of team and individual sports. If team sports are your preference, try one of the official Special Olympics team sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, softball or team handball, to name a few. If you prefer individual competition, try cycling, gymnastics, golf, bowling, judo or choose from many, many, more. In addition, several of the team sports include an individual skills competition for athletes who are still perfecting their fundamental skills and not quite ready for team competitions. Pick the sport you love to play, whether it is badminton, bocce, field hockey, tennis or swimming. Every athlete finds an even playing field where she can shine regardless of age, experience, level of expertise or severity of disability.
3. Grab Your Partner
Try competing in Special Olympics Unified Sports. This unique approach to competition combines equal numbers of Special Olympics athletes with non-disabled partners or athletes who do not have intellectual disabilities. The partner pairing is typically based on age and ability but is ultimately determined sport-by-sport. This inclusive opportunity promotes equality among athletes. It also enables Special Olympians to have meaningful experiences with non-disabled peers and often leads to important and long-lasting friendships. Unified Sports help Special Olympics athletes improve their fundamental skills because all receive playing time and serve an important and valuable role within the team. Raise your level of physical fitness, improve your skills, sharpen your game and challenge your fellow athletes through the Special Olympics Unified Sports program.
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