Stories
These global stories are about the power of Special Olympics to inspire hope, confidence and courage. Special Olympics changes the lives of our athletes with intellectual disabilities but also our coaches, families, volunteers and others who have the opportunity to take part.
Cheers to Mary Davis: Reflections on a Legacy of Global Leadership and Inclusion
This episode features an inspiring conversation between host Novie Craven and Mary Davis, CEO of Special Olympics. With nearly five decades of dedication to the movement, Mary shares her extraordinary journey, the evolution of Special Olympics and her vision for a future rooted in dignity, opportunity and athlete-centered leadership.
2 Min Read
A Father-Son Team Teeing Up for USA Games
For Jacob Murasko, few things beat a sunny day on the golf course with his dad, Paul, by his side. Golf isn’t just their shared hobby, it’s their connection, their laughter, their way of showing up for each other. And now, that connection is taking them somewhere incredible: the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, where they’ll compete together as Unified partners.
2 Min Read
Youth Empowered, Leaders Inspired: Edna Šunjić
From her first swim at Oaza to breaking barriers in sport, leadership, education, and government, Edna’s story is one of perseverance, possibility, and the transformative power of inclusion.
2 Min Read
WTA legends leave lasting impression at year-end Finals in Riyadh
Vania King, Alicia Molik, Jessica Pegula, Gabriela Dabrowski, Erin Routliffe, Iga Swiatek and Garcia joined Judy Murray to help stage the Special Olympics clinic on behalf of the WTA Foundation.
1 Min Read
Fostering Inclusive Societies through the Power of Sport
This year, the theme of the United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities is fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress.
1 Min Read
A New Era of Inclusion: Burkina Faso Joins Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion
Burkina Faso Takes Bold Step for Inclusion and Empowerment
3 Min Read
Slam Dunk for Inclusion: The First Special Olympics Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup in Puerto Rico
This episode spotlights the power of inclusion and the growth of Unified Sports worldwide, featuring voices from Special Olympics Puerto Rico who are shaping this groundbreaking event.
1 Min Read
‘Basketball was our Language’—Brother and Sister Star in the World’s First International Unified Basketball Camp
Mer and Amira were among 40 Special Olympics players and Unified Partners from Finland, Bulgaria and Lithuania taking part.
3 Min Read
Life-changing Benefits of Basketball with Special Olympics Hellas and Panathinaikos AKTOR
“Basketball has changed my life and I am proud to be a part of this family.”
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Celebrates Unity, Courage, and Friendship with European Basketball Week 2025
More than 25,000 players from over 35 countries will compete across 250 events between 25 November and 3 December.
3 Min Read
sportanddev: Paris to Host the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026
The following is an excerpt from sportanddev’s article, detailing the upcoming 2026 Unified Football World Cup in Paris and sharing the excitement from sponsors and Special Olympics leadership.
1 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes Create Their Own Tacos in Coca-Cola’s Campaign
Minette Dani and Ricky Landgraff from the Special Olympics Sweden team are participating this autumn in Coca-Cola’s taco campaign.
1 Min Read