What exactly is Stanislaus County Special Olympics?
Stanislaus County Special Olympics is a non-profit, providing year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of sports to children and adults with intellectual disabilities, free of charge.
Stanislaus County Special Olympics serves 270 athletes from the Stanislaus County area.
What is “intellectual disability”?
Intellectual disability is characterized by significantly sub-average intellectual functioning, existing concurrently with related limitations in two or more of the following adaptive skill areas: communication, self-care, home living, social skills, community use, self-direction, safety, and functional academic, leisure, and work. Intellectual disability manifests before age 18.
Who can participate?
Special Olympics is open to every person with an intellectual disability, regardless of the level or degree of that person’s disability and whether or not that person also has other mental or physical disabilities.
Athletes must be at least 8 years old to compete at a sports competition. Athletes between 6–7 years of age can come out for practices, but cannot compete. There is no “cap” on how old an athlete can be. We have some very active athletes who are in their 50s and 60s and some are still going strong in their 70s!
What are the benefits of participating?
Children and adults with intellectual disabilities who participate in Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image. They grow mentally and socially and discover their own courage as contributing members of their communities. The rewards of Special Olympics are truly life-long!
What does it cost to participate in Special Olympics?
Special Olympics is absolutely free! The programs we offer are free for our athletes and volunteers thanks to the generous support of individuals, organizations and corporations in our communities. Community support for our fundraising efforts is critical to the continued success of our Special Olympics programs.
What sports do you offer?
Athletes can choose from 11 different sports that are offered throughout the year: Aquatics, Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Golf, Soccer, Softball, and Track & Field. Athletes can participate in as many sports as they wish. Go to the Sports page to find out about your favorite sport!
Do you offer programs for athletes of all levels and abilities?
Special Olympics prides itself on providing programs for all skill levels. By using preliminary scores and times to create teams and brackets, we ensure a competition environment that is balanced in terms of skill, age, and gender.
Can my athlete participate in a sport he or she doesn’t know how to play?
Absolutely! Special Olympics firmly believes that everyone can benefit from being part of a team, no matter their skill level. Our coaches and volunteers will work with your athlete to teach them the skills they need to participate in their sport of choice.
What is the dress code at practices?
Athletes should wear appropriate athletic attire to sports training. Usually, this includes athletic shoes with non-marking soles, shorts or sweats, and a t-shirt. Swimmers must wear a swimsuit and bring a towel. Athletes who are not dressed appropriately will be asked to observe the practice for that day.
How do I find out what training and competitions are upcoming in my area?
Go to the Training and Competitions Calendar to find out about events and competitions near you.
Where are you located?
Our headquarters are in Modesto, California.
Who finances you?
Our programs are free to all eligible athletes and are made possible thanks to the generous support of individuals, foundations, and businesses who believe in the values of the Special Olympics. Go to our Sponsors Page for more information about our generous annual partners.
Does Special Olympics need volunteers?
Yes! Volunteers are the lifeblood of Stanislaus County Special Olympics. They serve as coaches, officials, trainers, directors and a variety of other valuable roles. Special Olympics Stanislaus County is always on the look-out for new helping hands. Do you want to help a few hours per week? Once a month? Once a year? All contributions great and small leave their mark. You can help. You can make a difference. Go to our Volunteers page to find out how.
If you have a question that has not been answered above, please contact us and someone will respond to your question.