ways to Play

Young Athletes Program

Designed specifically for children aged 2 to 12, our dedicated team of coaches and volunteers will guide you through a series of engaging activities with a focus on inclusivity and fostering a love for physical activity. From running and jumping to kicking and throwing, every session is packed with laughter, learning, and new experiences.

young athletes program

Unlock the world of sports for your young one

Jump into an early introduction of Special Olympics through this fun sport and play program, where children stay active and establish healthy habits for the future—setting the stage for a life of physical activity, friendship, and learning.

7 months

Increase in motor skills after children participating in an 8-week Young Athletes Program.

65%

Of parents felt that participation in Special Olympics has raised their expectation of their children.

½

Of athletes’ siblings felt that participation in Special Olympics brought their family closer together.

Program Details

We offer different programming based on age and ability to best prepare
young ones for their future at Special Olympics.
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young athlete

Level 1

Typically, between ages 2-7 years old, we offer an inclusive sport & play program where children learn basic sport and locomotor movements, such as running, jumping, balancing, kicking, and throwing. The children learn how to play with others, to share, take turns, and follow directions, which will help them in family, community, and school activities.

young athlete

Level 2

As children grow physically and emotionally, usually between ages 6-12 years old, they enter a program designed for children who become comfortable with the Young Athletes program. This level focuses on individual sport skill development and early game play concepts.

This is a bridge program for children who may not be ready for competitive Special Olympics team sports but are interested in more structured sport activities like track & field, soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, and flag football.

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Stories

Our Athletes In Action

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Victory looks different for everyone, just ask Jimena!

Jimena rolled to gold at her first Summer Games! Cheered on in ASL, this 9-year-old superstar finished with two medals and one big kiss on the cheek from her biggest fan...her little sister.

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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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Halfway There: Meet the First Wave of Team Massachusetts USA Games Athletes

Team Massachusetts is heading to the 2026 USA Games! Holden Soccer, Bridgewater-Raynham Flag Football, Bowling, & Cambridge Warriors Basketball are in. More athletes to be announced after Summer Games!

Young Athletes

Frequently Asked Young Athlete Questions

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

What is Special Olympics Young Athletes?
How much does it cost to participate in Special Olympics Young Athletes programs?
Are Young Athletes programs adaptive?
How long do Young Athletes programs run?
Can my child without an intellectual disability participate in Young Athletes?
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Young Athletes In Action