Motivate. Inspire. Succeed.

Special OlympicsWorld’s largest program of sports training and athletic competition for children and

adults with intellectual disabilities

• 7,000 Special Olympics Washington athletes

• 8,000 volunteers across Washington State

• Year round sports training and competition in 16 sports

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• A place of acceptance, respect and belonging

• Better preparation for independent living

• Builds self-esteem, instills pride and enhances social competency

• Improved friendships and family relationships

Motivate. Inspire. Succeed.

Advantages for school districts partnering with SOWA

• Enhances the special education curriculum • Free training for adaptive PE and special

education teachers and interns as certified coaches

• Supports school district policies of inclusion and acceptance

• Opportunities for all students• Increases potential for state and federal

education grants• A measure of protection against liability

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YOUNG ATHLETES Innovative sports play program designed to

introduce children with intellectual disabilities to the world of sports prior to

Special Olympics eligibility at age 8• 2-7 Years of age• Totally inclusive• Free in-school Young Athletes exhibitions as

an introduction to Special Olympics Washington

• Free curriculum• Free new equipment similar to that used in

the exhibition for participating schools

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UNIFIED SPORTS Brings together athletes, with and without disabilities, who train and compete on the

same team

• Totally inclusive • Opportunities available at all ability levels• Partners and athletes are all of similar age

and ability• Variety of sports available ranging from

basketball and soccer to golf and skiing• Don’t have to be an all star to participate

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Traditional Special Olympics Programs

• Serves men and women, boys and girls with intellectual disabilities

• Offers sports training and competition opportunities for every athlete

• Offers year round sports training and competition

• A place of acceptance, respect and belonging

Motivate. Inspire. Succeed.

What’s needed to succeed?

• Facilities• Volunteers• Transportation• Participants• Equipment• Champions

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Special Olympics Washington Local Contacts

• Megan Hemingson, King County Sports and Programs Manager: 206.829.7072 Email: mhemingson@sowa.org

• Bill Southern, Director of Public Affairs & Outreach: 206.829.7083 Email: bsouthern@sowa.org