MATP
Regional Athlete Leaders: Middle East / North Africa
An intensive training program focused on leadership, inclusion, and personal development awaited members of the Special Olympics Middle East/North Africa Regional Athlete Leadership Council.
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Partners Strengthen Sport Programming for Global ID Community
Millions of people with intellectual disabilities still face disparities and a lack of quality education, health, and access to sport experiences every day.
7 Min Read
Building Capacity for Motor Activity Training Program (MATP)
Every athlete deserves the opportunity to participate in sport and physical activities in ways that are meaningful and appropriate to their abilities.
6 Min Read
The Beautiful Game Kicks Off: Paris hosts the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026
The footballs are packed. The boots are laced. From training grounds across the world, 324 footballers from 23 nations will gather at the Charléty Stadium in the ‘City of Light’ between 6-11 July to compete for the coveted title.
3 Min Read
A Week of Impact: Showcasing Inclusive Health at Special Olympics Ireland Site Visits
A weeklong series of site visits across Ireland highlighted innovative partnerships, athlete led initiatives, and institutional leadership advancing inclusive health for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
5 Min Read
Meet the Heroes Video Series: For Anyone Who Has Ever Been Told “No”
Everyone needs a hero. Someone they look up to and strive to be like. A person who defies all odds and is courageous in the attempt as they transcend obstacles in their way.
1 Min Read
Doha’s Story: Inspiring Hope Through MATP
Doha's world changed when Omar was diagnosed with a rare and severe disability.
2 Min Read
Nestlé Health Science becomes Global Partner to Special Olympics
[Lausanne, Switzerland - 7 November 2025] Nestlé Health Science (NHSc) has announced a $2 million USD multi-year partnership with Special Olympics. The partnership will focus on Special Olympics Motor Activity Training Program (MATP), and the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes® screening protocol.
1 Min Read
A Landmark Week for Inclusion: Middle East & Africa MATP Coach Training and Health Forum
From October 1 – 5, 2025, Special Olympics Middle East & North Africa (SOMENA) hosted the first-ever Continental MATP Coach Training Seminar and Family Health Forum in Abu Dhabi.
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Puerto Rico Hosts Live Draw Ceremony for the Inaugural Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup
[San Juan, Puerto Rico – 4 September 2025] With just 92 days to go before the first tip-off at Distrito T-Mobile for the inaugural Special Olympics Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup, Special Olympics Puerto Rico today hosted the official Draw Ceremony for the Cup.
2 Min Read