Goals of the Unified Sports program

Sport Skill Development
Under the direction of qualified coaches, participants will have the opportunity to develop sports skills as well as prepare themselves for participation in other community sports programs.

Competition Experiences
Athletes benefit from physical and mental challenges participating in a variety of competitions organized by Special Olympics or by community sports organizations.

Meaningful Inclusion
(Unified Sports rules and guidelines on ages and ability grouping help ensure that all athletes play an important, meaningful and valued role on the team.)

Community Based Participation

Friendship and Socialization
(The program provides a forum for positive social interaction between teammates and often leads to long lasting friendships.)

Transition and Choice

Unified Sports programs have found valuable partners in Parks and Recreation departments, schools, Boys and Girls Clubs of America and many more community sports organizations. These partnerships help further include athletes in their community.

Unified Sports programs help schools meet the transition mandate of PL 94-142 as well as providing a choice for athletes in and out of Special Olympics.