ATHLETES

THE DRIVE TO DO.

Ready to show the world what you’re made of? As a Special Olympics Illinois athlete, you’ll go beyond limits, build confidence, and find a team that feels like family. It’s not just about sports—it’s about discovering your potential and inspiring everyone around you. You’ve got what it takes.

“Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

– Special Olympics Athlete Oath

Become an Athlete

Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games Victory Dance 2024

OUR PROGRAMS

TRADITIONAL SPORTS

Athletes 8 years of age or older who meet our eligibility requirements are welcome to join Special Olympics Illinois’ traditional sports programs. We offer training and competition in 19 Olympic-type sports, with year-round opportunities for individuals and teams.

UNIFIED SPORTS® PARTNER

Unified Partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities) play on integrated teams with Special Olympics Illinois athletes, promoting inclusivity and expanding competitive opportunities within the world of sports.

YOUNG ATHLETES

Our Young Athletes Program introduces young children with intellectual disabilities (ages 2-7) and their families to the SOILL community—enhancing their physical and mental well-being while connecting them with supportive resources.

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT MODEL

The Player Development Model prepares athletes who aren’t ready for traditional Special Olympics Illinois events. It’s best for individuals requiring extra support, rule adjustments, or those transitioning from the Motor Activities Training Program.

MOTOR ACTIVITIES TRAINING PROGRAM (MATP)

Focusing on engagement rather than competition, our Motor Activities Training Program empowers those with severe and profound disabilities to experience the joy of sport—advancing SOILL’s mission to provide training to athletes of all ages and abilities.

ATHLETE LEADERSHIP

Our Athlete Leadership Programs (ALPs) encourage Special Olympics Illinois athletes to take on new roles like joining committees, coaching, serving as spokespersons, etc.—demonstrating the depth of their talents and interests to the larger community.

SPORTS OFFERED

Alpine Skiing

Artistic Gymnastics

Athletics (Track & Field)

Basketball

Bocce

Bowling

Cornhole (Unified)

Equestrian

Flag Football

Floor Hockey

Golf

Powerlifting

Rhythmic Gymnastics

Snowshoe

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Tennis

Volleyball

BECOME AN ATHLETE

This form is only for individuals not currently involved with Special Olympics Illinois. If you’re an athlete interested in trying a new sport, please contact your agency/coach.

ATHLETE NAME

Name

First Last

ADDRESS

Address

Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code Country

CONTACT INFORMATION

Email Address(Required)

Phone Number(Required)

ATHLETE DETAILS

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

School Attending (if applicable)

PARENT/GUARDIAN DETAILS

PARENT/GUARDIAN Name

First Last

AREA OF INTEREST

Traditional Sports Program (ages 8+)

Player Development Model (modified programs)

MATP (for athletes with severe or profound disabilities)

Unified Sports Partner (an individual without intellectual disabilities)

Young Athletes Program (ages 2-7)

Athlete Leadership Program (ALPs)

Current Athlete Resources

In order to be eligible for participation in Special Olympics, every athlete must have a valid Athlete Registration/Health & Release Form on file with Special Olympics Illinois prior to the start of training. Beginning Jan. 1, 2026 all athletes must have a valid Athlete Registration/Health & Release Form on file with Special Olympics Illinois. Read the full statement.

Visit the COE Portal