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.
A Story Through Photos: Takeaways from an Internship at Special Olympics
Destiny Stubbs shares her experience interning with the Content and Storytelling Team at Special Olympics, and how the photos from Winter Games tell their own story.
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Advocates: Don’t Leave This Community Out of Mental Health Discussions
The following is an excerpt from The Healthy by Reader’s Digest article, “Special Olympics Advocates: Don’t Leave This Community Out of Mental Health Discussions” on what effective mental health care looks like for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and why inclusion needs to be part of the solution.
1 Min Read
The International Judo Federation and Special Olympics Reinforce Partnership
With the mission of promoting the development of judo worldwide in all sectors of sport, the International Judo Federation and Special Olympics recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen opportunities for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities.
1 Min Read
Bosnia & Herzegovina Pledges Support for Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion
Landmark agreement aims to empower youth with intellectual disabilities and expand access to inclusive education and sports
4 Min Read
Tears at the Finish Line as Dominika Becomes First Slovak Woman with Cerebral Palsy to Complete International Triathlon
On 20 May 2025, 19-year-old Dominika Medveďová from Brezno swam 750 metres, cycled 20 km and ran 5 km before crossing the finish line at the 4th Open European Special Olympics Triathlon Championships in Šamorín to become the first Slovak woman with cerebral palsy to complete an international triathlon.
3 Min Read
Line Up for Inclusion on World Football Day: Special Olympics Launches Global Football Development Strategy to Grow the Game
In celebration of World Football Day today, Special Olympics has launched a new football development strategy designed to get more players with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) than ever before playing the beautiful game.
3 Min Read
More Than A Game: How Football Transformed Rubén’s Life
The Special Olympics Madrid athlete shares how sport—and the support of a dedicated coach—helped him overcome personal challenges, dramatically improving his health, well-being and relationship.
2 Min Read
“I was There from the Start!”: Celebrating 25 Years of European Football Week with André Peeters
From its inception to its future goals: Special Olympics Europe Eurasia Football Advisor, André Peeters, takes us on a 25-year-long journey following the spectacular evolution of Special Olympics Football Week in Europe.
5 Min Read
Inside the Games: Special Olympics Shapes Football Strategy
The following is an excerpt from Inside the Games’ article, “Special Olympics shapes football strategy” which discusses the power of sport and the impact inclusive sport has on football across the world.
1 Min Read
“Special Olympics was my Golden Ticket”—Anja Celebrates European Football Week 2025
Before joining Special Olympics, Anja Van Helden trained with other teams but she was always left on the sidelines on match day. Now, she is the heart of her Special Olympics Switzerland team for training sessions and matches alike—and she just loves it!
1 Min Read
Athlete Perspective: The Importance of Inclusive Research and Evaluation
Special Olympics Minnesota athlete, Kayte Barton shares her experience as an athlete, participant, and Athlete Advisory Board Member for Project ALL STAR, while highlighting Special Olympics’ unique role in advancing inclusive research and evaluation.
5 Min Read
No Longer on the Sidelines: Jack Healey's Journey to Special Olympics Football
Jack Healey, a 20-year-old from Berkshire in England, always nurtured a deep love for football.
2 Min Read