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!
Longtime Special Olympics Athlete Shows Passion Through Soccer
It was a sunny day at the Bill Hughes Park in Rocklin, California, where long-time Special Olympics Northern California athlete Bud Hawley sat, ready to be interviewed. Despite the relaxed atmosphere, time was short as other athletes trickled into the park for soccer practice. Hawley has only been with the team for a short period, but he has already left an impression. With his friendly smile and focused work-ethic, he’s set up for the most success.
1 Min Read
Meet the Heroes Video Series: For Anyone Who Has Ever Been Told “No”
Everyone needs a hero. Someone they look up to and strive to be like. A person who defies all odds and is courageous in the attempt as they transcend obstacles in their way.
1 Min Read
Special Olympics Angola Wins Gold at Historic Basketball World Cup
Special Olympics Angola has made history by winning gold at the first ever Special Olympics Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup hosted in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
4 Min Read
On the Break: Namibia’s Moses Fredericks Makes His Mark
The pace was relentless, the shot clock unforgiving. Namibia’s Day 1 matchup against Germany revealed the intensity of 3x3 Basketball.
1 Min Read
"They Make You Feel Different—It's Fantastic"
Special Olympics transforms lives through the power and joy of sport every day around the world.
Australia’s Unified 3x3 Team Shows Heart and Hustle
At the 3x3 Basketball World Cup in San Juan, team Australia has been turning heads with its combination of speed, skill, and teamwork—aided by player Jordan McCormick, bringing passion and infectious enthusiasm to every play.
2 Min Read
Unity on the Half-Court: Saudi Arabia’s Journey Unfolds in San Juan
Special Olympics Saudi Arabia entered the Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup with a mission grounded in competitive drive.
1 Min Read
Fast Break Rising: Chilean Brothers Surge into San Juan’s 3x3 Showdown
Brothers at the Heart of Chile’s 3x3 Goal
3 Min Read
Yo soy Boricua, Pa´que tú lo sepas
Frances Ocasio, 19-year-old Special Olympics Puerto Rico athlete is proudly representing her island, the host country, at the Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup. Today she is confident, focused, and determined, but her path to the team was not easy.
1 Min Read
Jamaican Player Debuts on the Global Stage at the Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup
At just 19 years old, Jamaican born 3x3 Basketball player Makayla Williams is already showing the world what determination looks like. She joined her Special Olympics program two years ago, driven by her love for basketball and the joy of competing alongside her teammates.
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