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!
2020 Xperience Tennis Invitational Brings out the Best
33 of Top Special Olympics North America Tennis Athletes Featured
1 Min Read
It’s Been a Year of Inclusion for Julio
Julio shows that all over the world, people with intellectual disabilities are chipping away at societal barriers and showing what they bring to the table.
Make Inclusion Your Resolution!
For us, 2019 has been about bringing people with and without intellectual disabilities together. As we look to 2020, help us continue our work towards building an inclusive world.
Accepting Me: Meet Yannick
Through accepting himself, Yannick found his voice. He wants people, especially parents, to know that inclusion starts with you!
Athlete-Coaches Shine During European Basketball Week
Special Olympics athlete-coaches from SO Belgium (Tamara) and SO Germany (Andre) made their mark at the Unified Basketball Tournament held in Munich, Germany from 28 – 30 November.
1 Min Read
Never Give Up: Meet Al-Sayyed
Al-Sayyed joined Special Olympics as a volunteer. Then he became an athlete. Now he is a leader.
Ken Melvin's Tips on Facilitating a Meeting
Have you been tasked to lead a meeting but don’t know where to begin? Whether you have 3 or 100 participants, Ken Melvin has tips to help you get started the right way.
1 Min Read
When the Ref Make The Rules: Meet Jimmy
Growing up, the schools and even some family members treated Jimmy as if he were cursed. As a referee, he is an authority figure and asset.
Thank You, NFL Players
I want to tell you a story about a kid who fell in love with sports at a young age. About a kid who had dreams of making a difference. A kid who was willing to do whatever it took to achieve that dream, but who was also just trying to keep up with everyone else.
2 Min Read
Sport as Inspiration: Meet Joyce
Joyce’s passion is sports. She uses that same passion to inspire others, especially the youth.
True Loves - Family and Football: Meet Boniface
Boniface was once a shy person. Now he is a husband, father and athlete looking to inspire others through is passion of playing football (soccer).
The Most Inclusive Event on the Planet
No other organized event in the world has the emotional and social impact of the Special Olympics World Games
1 Min Read