Become Special Star Athlete is a Slovak youth-led initiative that supports Special Olympics athletes through consistent Unified coaching, building confidence and sustainability through weekly inclusive training sessions.
About the Project
Become Special Star Athlete is a youth-led initiative in Slovakia focused on supporting Special Olympics athletes through consistent coaching assistance and inclusive training sessions in athletics and rhythmic gymnastics. Youth leader Matuš Valaštín joined the coaching staff as an assistant and Unified partner, helping lead weekly practices. His involvement allowed coaches to engage more athletes and strengthened the program's sustainability.
The Inspiration
Matuš was inspired by his friend Linda, a former Youth Leader, and her passion for volunteering with Special Olympics athletes. He wanted to follow in her footsteps, build his own self-confidence, and help fill the gap in Slovakia’s coaching infrastructure for athletes with intellectual disabilities. Recognizing a national lack of formal training for coaches, he saw volunteering as a way to bridge the gap and support athletes more personally.
The Project
Matuš participated in nearly every training session over a 9-month period, learning directly from coaches and building trust with the athletes. He also recruited friends, wrote about his experience for school, and became a consistent, positive presence on the field and in the gym. His presence allowed for deeper engagement with individual athletes and demonstrated how youth leaders can make meaningful contributions to long-term inclusion.
Project Impact
The project engaged 22 Special Olympics athletes and 12 peers without ID, created 2 new Unified Sports Clubs, and expanded programming at 2 Unified Schools. It also introduced 28 new youth leaders, showing how one person’s commitment can inspire broader youth engagement. The consistent attendance and coaching support helped elevate training quality and fostered strong peer relationships.
Project Leader Reflection
Matuš is proud of helping his best friend join the program and earning a Special Olympics certificate recognizing his contributions. He overcame his fear of speaking with people with ID, found joy in every training, and learned not to take himself too seriously. He plans to continue volunteering as a coach and bring more students into the Unified movement.
