When athletes are in their best physical health, they train and compete at their highest level. Healthy Athletes not only provides health services and education, it also trains health care students and professionals who gain increased knowledge of and compassion for people with intellectual disabilities. All athletes with a current medical on file with SOWI are invited to the screenings, even if they are not competing at Fall Games.
Special Smiles (funding provided by Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation) performs dental screenings to increase awareness of oral health. At the screening, dentists and hygienists identify oral problems, while athletes are provided with hygiene education, a “goodie bag” with dental care items, fitted mouth guards and fluoride varnish!
Strong Minds helps Special Olympics athletes strengthen their coping skills. Competition provides a natural opportunity to develop positive and active strategies for maintaining emotional wellness under stress, such as: thinking positive thoughts, releasing stress and connecting with others.
Thank you to Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation, Golisano Foundation and CDC for making the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes program possible!
