Special Olympics Unified Sports brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to train and compete on the same team. Unified partners improve their physical fitness, sharpen their skills and learn acceptance and inclusion while participating in sports alongside their peers with intellectual disabilities. A primary goal of Unified Sports is to equalize the ability level of Special Olympics athletes with their partners and to promote inclusion through team practice and competition.
All Unified Partners are required to complete a Class A volunteer form. Individuals over the age of 18 are required to provide their social security number as they are CORI and background checked to ensure the safety and well-being of Special Olympics athletes. Individuals under 18 are required to have two non-family members write recommendations on their behalf.
people worldwide take part in Unified sports
of family members in the United States report that athletes improved their self-esteem after participating in Unified Sports
of Unified Sports teammates without intellectual disabilities report increased understanding of people with intellectual disabilities
MIAA Unified Track & Field Championship saw 500 athletes from 55 schools. Franklin and Chicopee honored for sportsmanship, while Natick and Wareham clinched titles in a day of thrilling performances and unity.
MLS Unified All-Star Game promotes inclusivity with Special Olympics MA. Mars and Amelia from New England prepare for their big match, emphasizing motivation, hydration, and recovery. Catch their game online on July 23 at 3:30 PM ET.
Boston Bruins prospects joined Special Olympics MA for Unified Floorball at the New Balance TRACK, showcasing community unity and inclusivity. The event emphasized giving back and inspiring perseverance through sports beyond the ice.
Couldn’t find what you were looking for? write to us at Ops@SpecialOlympicsMA.org
Unified partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities) train and compete as a teammate alongside Special Olympics athletes on a Unified Sports Team (either on a school or community team). Unified partners can be any age!
While Unified Partners are considered teammates of Special Olympics athletes, meaning they train and compete alongside each other, they will need to fill out a Class A volunteer form to participate.
Unified Partners can be any age! Individuals over the age of 18 are required to provide their social security number as they are CORI and background checked to ensure the safety and well-being of Special Olympics athletes. Individuals under 18 are required to have two non-family members write recommendations for them.
You can sign up today on with this form.
All Special Olympics Massachusetts programs are free to both athletes and Unified partners!
Not exactly. Unified Sports should be a place where all players are evenly matched and get to experience fully playing sports. During practice there are opportunities for Unified partners and Special Olympics athletes to take leadership roles and to showcase their talents and skills. Typically Unified partners and Special Olympics athletes get as much out of the athletic experience as one another.