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.
Special Olympics Athletes Wow the Crowds at the 2024 FIBA Open
Eleven Special Olympics teams were among over 1,000 basketball players at the recent FIBA Open in Mies, the largest 3x3 basketball tournament in Switzerland, on 15 and 16 June 2024.
3 Min Read
Special Olympics and FIBA Foundation: A Natural Fit
The recent FIBA Open in Mies, Switzerland shows the partnership between Special Olympics and the FIBA Foundation in action.
2 Min Read
A Father's Encouragement and a Son's Determination
Mohammed bin Abul Aziz was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder four years ago, and today his condition is ever-evolving due to his father’s continual efforts to encourage him to go through regular health assessments and be a part of Special Olympics Oman.
2 Min Read
One Year On: The Berlin Games Writes New Rulebook on Inclusion
In a week of activities to mark the one-year anniversary of the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023, the official media and awareness report was published and a global webinar charting the event’s ongoing legacy impact was held.
4 Min Read
Ukrainian Teen Vlad Flourishes on the Dutch Athletics Track
Vlad Bezghinov, originally from Ukraine, competed in the 100 metres, 200 metres and shot put at the recent Special Olympics Netherlands 2024 National Games.
2 Min Read
FIVB Volleyball Foundation Launch Welcomes Special Olympics
Special Olympics was present at the launch of the FIVB (Fédération Internationale de Volleyball) Volleyball Foundation in Lausanne, Switzerland, on 30 May.
2 Min Read
New Coaching Guide Launched to Boost Unified Volleyball across Europe
A comprehensive Unified Volleyball Coaching Guide has publicly launched this week as one of the main outputs of the ground-breaking ‘Unified Volleyball Spikes’ project funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union (EU).
3 Min Read
Ali Embraces New Life with the Support of Special Olympics
Afghan refugee living in Spain shares how the ‘Unified with Refugees’ sports platform helped him integrate into his new community
3 Min Read
Sasha’s Journey of Hope Through Special Olympics
‘Unified with Refugees’ platform provides Ukrainian refugee with integration opportunities in Slovakia via sports
2 Min Read
A Father’s Struggle to Learn Acceptance—An extraordinary Journey
In Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China, there’s a heartwarming story about a young boy with Down syndrome who, with his father’s support, became a champion.
2 Min Read
One Year On: Athletes Reflect on the Powerful Legacy of the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023
As Special Olympics movement celebrates the one-year anniversary of the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 (“Berlin Games”), athletes from across Europe reflect on the impact that the Games had on their lives through a series of five compelling videos.
3 Min Read
Andrea & Cinta: A Unified Sports Journey Towards Gold!
Berlin 2023 basketball champions Andrea Ballesta and Unified partner Cinta Gomis reflect on their Special Olympics World Games experience.
2 Min Read