Athletes
Athletes are the heart of Special Olympics. Our athletes are children and adults with intellectual disabilities from all around the world—5.6 million and counting! They are finding success, joy and friendship as part of our global community. They're also having lots of fun!
Special Olympics and X Games Athlete Henry Meece Feels at Home on the Mountain
Henry Meece is among the 10 athletes competing in snowboarding but isn’t new to the competition.
3 Min Read
There’s Always Something to be Happy About
Special Olympics Specialist in Brand, Communications, and Content and Special Olympics Maryland athlete Ben Collins shared his thoughts about International Day of Happiness.
1 Min Read
Athlete Kelly Campbell Makes History as First Special Olympics Washington Athlete to be Named Board Chair
Having been involved with the organization for over three decades in a variety of areas, Campbell is set to become the first athlete to be named board chair for the Program.
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Arizona Flag Football Team Finds Motivation in Rose Bowl to Prepare for the USA Games
To the sports world and beyond, it’s the most iconic venue in sports. But to a select few, there is another venue that will soon hold significant importance.
5 Min Read
Special Olympics Alaska Athlete Uses Platform to Promote Healthy Lifestyle
Abdul-Jillil gets ready to host her "Afternoons with Ayesha" segment, helping athletes stay fit and connected virtually.
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Lebanon shares a VERY SPECIAL Seasons’ Greeting!
A wonderful video created by Special Olympics Lebanon team and athletes to wish everyone a joyful Christmas holiday.
Athlete Leadership Leads to Employment in Kenya
Two videos highlight the Athlete Leadership programming work that Special Olympics offers.
1 Min Read
Inclusion Starts Young
Learn more about Young Athlete Arianna's story and the Special Olympics partnership with BILLY Footwear entitled Inclusion Fits!
1 Min Read
Samantha Soars
For SO New Zealand athlete Samantha Shepherd, Special Olympics is the place where she found belonging, personal growth and friendship.
2 Min Read
‘I have so many dreams’--Meet Magnus!
At age 20, Magnus Orri Arnarson is already a role model for people with intellectual disabilities—and without—in Iceland...and beyond.
2 Min Read
Michael Detouche Gains Confidence Fishing and Makes Valuable Impact Within Special Olympics
Before you get to know Michael Detouche, a Special Olympics Dominica athlete from the Caribbean, you should know a few things. Every weekend, he fishes.
3 Min Read
Shakir Stapleton Translates Lessons Learned in Sports to the Workplace
Standing on a silver construction ladder with a red top, Shakir Stapleton is tucked deep inside the ceiling working on the technical aspect of computer systems. To the normal eye, the complicated wiring and electrical work can be described as a foreign language. But for Stapleton, it’s just another day at work, in his element, thriving.
4 Min Read