Young Athletes
Welcoming a new generation of athletes
Meet the future athletes of Special Olympics!
Our Young Athletes Program is a fun and interactive way for children ages 2–9 to be introduced to the world of sports. Young Athletes with and without intellectual disabilities take part in inclusive activities that support cognitive, social and motor skill development. Children are also encouraged to try age-appropriate sports skills and make friends while playing together.
Learn, Play & Have Fun Together!
The Young Athletes Program is all about learning and having fun in an encouraging and inclusive environment.
Young Athletes Program Benefits
Development – Development of motor skills and eye-hand coordination at the athletes’ skill and ability level
Friendship – Inclusive interactions that leads to friendships based on respect and acceptance
Network – Provides families a vehicle to empower one another to see their children’s potential
“I cannot tell you what it means as a parent to see your child’s face light up with excitement, pride, and happiness as they experience the joy of sport. This is especially true as parents to a young athlete; so much of our early years were full of illness, surgeries, hospital stays, and therapies…to be able to have such a positive, motivating experience was indescribable.“
– Young Athlete Parent
Special Olympics NorCal
