competitive sports

Sports

A tried-and-true method of introducing individuals with intellectual disabilities to the benefits of sports. Many athletes and parents are comforted to know this is a place just for them.  

sports

A place for you to be you

Athletic training and competition for athletes with intellectual disabilities is in our DNA. While Unified Sports is on the rise, we are still here for Special Olympics Athletes who want to compete in the traditional sports model, built specifically for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

With high-quality coaching, training, and competitions, Special Olympics sports offer a lifetime of activity and social engagement for the disability community. Show the world what you have in team and individual sports from athletics to volleyball!  

6,552

Athletes Competing in Traditional Special Olympics Sports

23

Sports Available

4

Sports Seasons

116

Traditional Sports Competitions Annually

sports

Resources and Stories

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Point32 Celebrates Special Olympics Athlete Dee Cotter as a ‘Healthy Hero’

Dee Cotter was honored with the Healthy Hero award by Point32Health for her leadership in sport and wellness. A champion athlete and advocate, Dee inspires through inclusion, fitness, and her impact on the Final Leg.

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For Amos Njenga, It Wasn’t About the Gold…It Was About the Finish

Amos stopped with 25 meters left in his race. One by one, the crowd started cheering. When he finally let go of the wall and finished, the entire pool erupted. He didn’t win gold—but that moment meant everything.

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Meet the 2025 Hall of Fame Class: Johnathan and Kyle Titus

Double the laughs, double the impact! The Titus Brothers have lit up courts and hearts. Their bond with law enforcement & passion for inclusion earned them a spot in the 2025 Hall of Fame!

sports

Frequently Asked Sports Questions

Couldn’t find what you were looking for? write to us at Ops@SpecialOlympicsMA.org

What is the difference between Traditional Special Olympics Sports and Unified Sports?
What sports are offered in the traditional Special Olympics Sports model?
Can athletes still compete at the highest level in Traditional Special Olympics Sports?
get involved as an athlete

Athletes in Action