Everybody is different. The goal of Special Olympics is to reach out to the nearly 200 million people in the world with Intellectual Disabilities (ID).
Currently in New Zealand, we have over 5000 athletes and there are over 5 million more spread across the globe.
Special Olympics provides sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Through sports, our athletes are able to see themselves for their abilities. They are open to grow, become confident, and be empowered by their accomplishments. As well as making new friends and being apart of the most inclusive community on the planet – a global community that is growing every day.
Athletes are the heart of Special Olympics. Special Olympics athletes are children and adults with intellectual disabilities from all around the world. They are finding success, joy and friendship as part of our global community. At any age and in every country, our athletes are learning new skills, making new friends and gaining in fitness and confidence.
From athletes there comes leaders, Special Olympics also offer the Athlete Leadership Programme (ALPs), this programme allows athletes to explore opportunities in roles previously considered non-traditional. As athletes mature, they seek new challenges and look for ways to utilise the wisdom that comes from their life and Special Olympics experiences.
Athlete Oath
Fit 5 Guide
Fit 5 Fitness Cards