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Eunice Kennedy Shriver

"Special Olympics is sports in its truest sense. The goal is not to win, but to try. To experience, not to conquer. No records are broken in Special Olympics except those of courage, determination, and sportsmanship."

Eunice Kennedy Shriver
Special Olympics Founder

Become an Athlete

Why should I participate in Special Olympics?

Participating in Special Olympics helps athletes get physically and mentally fit. Also, participating in Special Olympics is a great way to meet new friends and can help you reach for your dreams in your every day life.

Am I eligible to be a Special Olympics Athlete?

Anyone who has been identified as having a intellectual disability by an agency or professional and is age eight or older can train and compete as a Special Olympics Athlete. Learn more about Athlete Eligibility.

Read Athlete Eligibility Frequently Asked Questions

Athletes ages 2-7 may inquire about SOWI's Young Athletes Program.

Are there Any Fees for Participation?

There is no cost to the athlete to join Special Olympics Wisconsin. There may be a minimal cost involved in participating. No athlete will be denied participation based on economic circumstances.

How do I Join?

  1. Contact Jenn O'Brien at the Special Olympics Wisconsin office at (800) 552-1324. Jenn will provide you with a contact name for a local agency and the Regional program.

  2. Obtain and complete the official Special Olympics Wisconsin Release Form and the Application for Participation in Special Olympics or download the forms below. (Athletes with Down syndrome may need to complete the Special Exam Form.)

  3. Return your form(s) to the local Agency, who will then turn in your forms to Special Olympics Wisconsin Headquarters. All new athletes must have both forms on file before they can begin practicing. Medical deadline dates are strictly enforced for upcoming competitions. Please work closely with your Agency manager to make sure medical deadlines are met. It is your responsibility to maintain a valid medical form with Special Olympics Wisconsin Headquarters.

Why are the Medical Forms (Special Olympics Wisconsin release forms and the application for participation) necessary?

The Medical Release Forms are similar to those required for any other sports program. They provide for:

  1. Necessary medical information, including a health history, health insurance information and emergency contacts, including physician, parent or guardian.

  2. Secondary insurance coverage by Special Olympics, Inc. as a secondary policy.

  3. Emergency medical treatment in the event that a parent or guardian cannot be reached.

  4. A photo release allowing Special Olympics Wisconsin to use any photos or video of its athletes for marketing purposes.

  5. Release for athletes wishing to participate in the Healthy Athletes Program.

Athlete Registration Forms

More information on becoming an athlete

If you have questions, contact

Jenn O'Brien, Director of
jobrien@specialolympicswisconsin.org
Toll Free: (800) 552-1324
Direct Line: (608) 442-5674