Stories From the Field of Play
Win or lose, our athletes leave it all on the field. Read more about their triumphs, trials and trainings here.
Athletes and coaches, share your story at the bottom of the page!
Athletes and coaches, share your story at the bottom of the page!
More Than A Game: How Football Transformed Rubén’s Life
The Special Olympics Madrid athlete shares how sport—and the support of a dedicated coach—helped him overcome personal challenges, dramatically improving his health, well-being and relationship.
2 Min Read
“I was There from the Start!”: Celebrating 25 Years of European Football Week with André Peeters
From its inception to its future goals: Special Olympics Europe Eurasia Football Advisor, André Peeters, takes us on a 25-year-long journey following the spectacular evolution of Special Olympics Football Week in Europe.
5 Min Read
Inside the Games: Special Olympics Shapes Football Strategy
The following is an excerpt from Inside the Games’ article, “Special Olympics shapes football strategy” which discusses the power of sport and the impact inclusive sport has on football across the world.
1 Min Read
“Special Olympics was my Golden Ticket”—Anja Celebrates European Football Week 2025
Before joining Special Olympics, Anja Van Helden trained with other teams but she was always left on the sidelines on match day. Now, she is the heart of her Special Olympics Switzerland team for training sessions and matches alike—and she just loves it!
1 Min Read
European Football Week 2025 #:EFW2025 Anja's Story
"For me, joining Special Olympics was like a golden ticket" - , Anja Van Helden, Special Olympics Switzerland Before joining Special Olympics, Anja trained with other teams but when it came to match day, she was left on the sidelines.
No Longer on the Sidelines: Jack Healey's Journey to Special Olympics Football
Jack Healey, a 20-year-old from Berkshire in England, always nurtured a deep love for football.
2 Min Read
“We all Deserve to be the Main Character in our Own Life”: The Powerful Impact of Inclusive Football in Viterbo, Italy
The five-a-side football team of the Zucchero Filato Association in Viterbo, Italy, is showing how sport can be a powerful tool for social inclusion.
2 Min Read
Special Olympics European Football Week Celebrates 25 Years of Inclusion Through Sport
[Europe - 16 May 2025] Special Olympics Europe Eurasia (SOEE), a regional office of Special Olympics, Inc. (Special Olympics) has announced the start of the 25th edition of European Football Week (EFW 2025), to be celebrated from 17 to 24 May 2025 across 45+ nations in SOEE.
3 Min Read
One for All and All for One: Team Mari
For Mari Holt, competing at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games is a long-awaited dream come true.
1 Min Read
SONA Recognizes Outstanding Coaches Throughout Region
Throughout Special Olympics North America, more than 116,000 dedicated individuals donate their time and expertise as Special Olympics coaches.
4 Min Read
Share Your Story
Athletes and coaches: we would love to hear your story! Fill out this form to share your experiences with the Special Olympics community.