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.
“Happiness and Pride Through Sports”—Li Xiang’s Story
In China, people with intellectual disabilities can face stigma from the moment of diagnosis.
1 Min Read
On The Bright Side: Meet Jessy
Jessy Lane is a dedicated, diligent athlete who doesn't give up easily. That's also how she lost 100 pounds: through steady & consistent training.
2 Min Read
‘Prejudiced’ Mindset A Major Worry, Feels Finnish Athlete Julia Fonsén
‘The most effective way to raise awareness is to let persons with intellectual disability speak for themselves’
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Goes Beyond the Field of Play for Italy’s Aloisio and Enwereuzoh
“I wish to see more young people make themselves available to support us. I would like to see students and teachers come out because they learn to understand us and know that being together helps us to live more peacefully.”
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes Lead the Way Toward Inclusive Fitness
The following is an expert from the CDC’s website post titled CDC and Special Olympics: Inclusive Health. For more information or to read the entire post, please visit the page here.
2 Min Read
Andżelika Stachowiak’s Aims High Ahead Of Her Second World Games
Polish judoka wants “to be the best” in Berlin
2 Min Read
#EFW2023 Celebrates Women's Football and Empowers Unified Youth: Join the Action!
New edition of major European competition will run between 20 and 28 May 2023
2 Min Read
Badminton Community Rallying Together Ahead of Special Olympics World Games Berlin
Special Olympics programs and badminton Member Associations are working hard in close collaboration preparing athletes to shine on the world stage at the Special Olympics World Games badminton competition in Berlin this June.
2 Min Read
Providing a Voice for the Athletes, Speaking Opportunities by Special Olympics
Throughout the Special Olympics North America Region, Programs are creating opportunities for Special Olympics athletes to find their voices and share their powerful stories.
3 Min Read
Joseíto Rivera Become First Puerto Rican Special Olympics Athletes to complete an IRONMAN 70.3
José "Joseíto" Rivera made history in March 2023 when he became the first Special Olympics Puerto Rico athlete to complete an IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon.
1 Min Read
Once Excluded, Ablaye Is Now ‘One of Us’
Ablaye Ndiaye is one of the stars of his neighborhood in Senegal’s capital, Dakar. Yet, years ago, he was mostly an outcast due to negative beliefs and stereotypes about people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities.
1 Min Read