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 Minnesota Athlete Danielle Liebl Thrives in Both Sports and Academics to Become Lawyer at Amazon
Surrounded by the magnificent architecture showcased at the White House, Danielle Liebl was experiencing a life-changing event.
6 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes Employed by Special Olympics Programs Strive for Inclusion in the Workforce
Employment stories come in all categories, with each story reflecting a unique perspective and journey to getting that job. For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, it is not always an easy journey to employment.
7 Min Read
Style of Sports Gets the Scoop on Parsons Be Brave Photoshoot
The following is an excerpt from the article, Be Brave: Special Olympics X Parson, published by Style of Sport.
1 Min Read
Chris Nikic Entry in Guinness Book of World Records
The following is an excerpt from the article, First Person with Down’s Syndrome to finish an Ironman: Chris Nikic’s Story, published by guinessworldrecords.com.
1 Min Read
Being the Best He can Be: Meet Omar
Omar Al Shami proudly represented his country, the United Arab Emirates, at the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, and achieved a gold medal in the swimming competition.
2 Min Read
Inclusion At Work: Meet Kurtis
Kurtis Jon Siu grew up in Hong Kong in a family of four, with an older brother who also has an intellectual disability. Kurtis credits Special Olympics with building his confidence, not only in sports but also by encouraging him to pursue his passions. One of those passions is art and design!
1 Min Read
Rylan Ritter Takes Gridiron Grit and Transfers It to Powerlifting
It was a gloomy day when Rylan Ritter and his varsity football teammates from Poteau High School gathered for a team meeting following practice. Ritter, a sophomore, sitting on his knees and entirely focused on head coach Greg Warner, was about to get the surprise of a lifetime.
4 Min Read
SOI Representatives Appraised how Kazan is getting ready for SO World Winter Games
They examined Special Olympics World Winter Games facilities and discussed further steps to prepare for the competitions.
1 Min Read
From Athlete to Workplace Role Model: ‘I enjoy challenges!’
Special Olympics athlete Oana Rotar has been breaking employment barriers in Romania: she is the first woman with Down syndrome employed in the national government’s public administration.
1 Min Read
Inspirational Speaker, Author & Athlete: Meet Dina
There isn’t just one word to describe Dina Galal, a woman of many talents.
1 Min Read
American Physical Therapy Association Summit Features Keynote Address from Special Olympics Chief Health Officer
Special Olympics Chief Health Officer Dr. Alicia Bazzano addressed members of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) at the Future of Physical Therapy Summit.
1 Min Read
Coach Wilson Chua Takes Inspiration from Son and Impacts Special Olympics Virginia Community
Gathered inside the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey for the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games Opening Ceremony, excitement filled the air as each state delegation was announced.
4 Min Read