What is Special Olympics?

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Special Olympics is a program designed to provide training and competition for athletes with special needs, giving them opportunities to develop physical fitness, experience sportsmanship and demonstrate both individual and team skills, while sharing gifts and friendship with their peers, families and the community.

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What is the difference in the local, area, and state events?

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Local Events: These events are open to all athletes who have completed and submitted a Special Olympics medical application to the local coordinator.  The athletes should train for at least 6 – 8 weeks prior to the competition date.  (Teachers and volunteers under the supervision and consultation of the A.P.E staff can assist in the training.)

 

Area Events: These events are limited and therefore athletes and classes will be invited to attend.  Competitions include other counties and districts.  Determination of participation is based on the skill and sportsmanship of the athletes and coaches.  Teachers need to check off that their class is interested by marking so on their class list form turned in at the beginning of the school year.

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State Events: These events are very limited and based on the State Quota.  If you are interested in participating in these events please let me know by checking off on the class list form.  These events include an overnight stay for both the students and teachers and are held on the weekend.  Volunteer /chaperone forms and a background check by Special Olympics will need to be completed prior to the state event.  If you are interested in this please let me know as soon as possible.