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.
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
“We all Deserve to be the Main Character in our Own Life”: The Powerful Impact of Inclusive Football in Viterbo, Italy
The five-a-side football team of the Zucchero Filato Association in Viterbo, Italy, is showing how sport can be a powerful tool for social inclusion.
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Set to Score More Crucial Goals for Inclusion Through its Global Football Development Strategy
The following is an excerpt from AIPS’ article, “Special Olympics set to score more crucial goals for inclusion through its global football development strategy” which highlights Special Olympics’ global football strategy and the impact football has on people with and without intellectual disabilities around the world.
1 Min Read
Lighting the Way Series, Part 1: Spotlighting Global Family Leadership on International Day of Families
This International Day of Families, Special Olympics is celebrating the parents, siblings, and caregivers who are the heartbeat of the Special Olympics movement.
4 Min Read
One for All and All for One: Team Mari
For Mari Holt, competing at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games is a long-awaited dream come true.
1 Min Read