This International Day of Play, Special Olympics is celebrating the joyful, inclusive, and powerful impact of play in the lives of children with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Recognized annually on 11 June, International Day of Play reminds us that play is an essential part of childhood development. Whether it’s kicking a ball with a friend, diving into the pool, or simply sharing a moment of laughter, play creates opportunities for connection and growth. This year’s theme “choose play–every day,” encourages governments, organizations, schools, families, and communities to actively prioritize and embrace play in children’s daily lives. Programs like Special Olympics Young Athletes offers families, teachers, caregivers, and community members the chance to share the joy of sports with all children.
Young Athletes is an early childhood play program for children with and without IDD, ages 2 to 7 years old. Young Athletes introduces basic sport skills, like running, kicking and throwing. Through Young Athletes, Special Olympics brings play to life in homes, schools, and communities around the world—offering children of all abilities the chance to develop motor skills, make friends, and experience the joy of movement. But the impact doesn’t stop there. Play becomes a launching pad for inclusion, leadership, and confidence—not just for children, but for families and entire communities.
Today on International Day of Play, we’re sharing the stories of Young Athletes who are showing the world what’s possible when play is inclusive.
Mari Avetisyan—Special Olympics Armenia—Young Athlete
Mari Avetisyan is a lively and energetic 7-year-old from Yerevan, Armenia, who has Down syndrome. From the time she was one, Mari found her greatest joy in the water. Swimming is her element—it makes her feel free, confident, and empowered.
Mari’s journey with Special Olympics Armenia began in 2024 after a visit to the Armenian State Institute of Physical Culture and Sport. There, she met the National Director of Special Olympics Armenia and was invited to join the movement. She shares her passion for swimming—and life—with her best friend, Milla. The two girls not only train together but also break barriers through fashion. Mari and Milla are models at ArevModels, the first and only modeling agency in Armenia for children with IDD. The agency, founded by Mari’s mother and other moms, aims to challenge stereotypes and create a more inclusive world through visibility and empowerment.
As the bridge between Special Olympics and ArevModels, Mari has become a unifying force. Whether modeling or playing sports, she inspires others with her joyful spirit and determination. Supported by a close-knit and loving family—her parents, siblings, and dedicated swim coach—Mari continues to dream big. She trains daily, determined to one day represent Armenia at international Special Olympics events.
For Mari, play isn’t just fun—it’s a powerful way to express herself, build strength, and shine. Her family’s motto says it best: “Always and only forward.”
[HD1]would it be possible to get any photos of Mari swimming? also is Mari on the left in both pictures?
Ester Gunišová and Liliana Gogolová—Special Olympics Slovakia—Unified partners
Nine-year-old Ester Gunišová, who has autism, met 8-year-old Liliana Gogolová at a Young Athletes Camp. From the start, the two became fast friends. Whether splashing in the pool or running across the playground, they did everything together—hand in hand.
During the Media Challenge Day, their friendship truly showed its strength. Overwhelmed by the crowd and noise, Ester became distressed and refused to join the activities. Her coach, father, and volunteers tried to help, but nothing worked—until Liliana gently stepped forward.
Though shy herself, Liliana reached out, took Ester’s hand, and quietly led her back to play. With her friend beside her, Ester’s panic faded, replaced by joy and trust. In Liliana, she didn’t see pressure—she saw understanding.
Their bond is a powerful reminder that inclusion doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes, all it takes is a quiet moment of compassion between two children who simply want to play together.
These stories remind us that play is a universal language—one that brings people together, teaches valuable life skills, and builds the foundation for an inclusive future.
Today, we celebrate all the Young Athletes, Unified partners, families, and coaches around the world who are using play as a force for good. Because when children play together, they grow together—and they light the way toward a more inclusive world.
Learn more about how you can get involved in Special Olympics Young Athletes and help bring the power of play to every child.
