Why should I participate in Special Olympics?
Participating in Special Olympics helps athletes become 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 an intellectual disability or closely related developmental disability by an Agency or professional and is age 8 or older can train and compete as a Special Olympics athlete.
Learn more about Athlete Eligibility.
Athletes ages 2-10 may inquire about Special Olympics Wisconsin’s Young Athletes™.
Are there Any Fees for Participation?
There is no cost to join Special Olympics Wisconsin. There may be local program registration fees or costs associated with participation such as facility rental, transportation, uniforms, and/or fees for advancement to competitions. No athlete will be denied participation based on economic circumstances.
How do I Join?
- Contact the Regional Athletic Director in your region.
- Obtain and complete the required paperwork or download the forms below. Medical deadlines are strictly enforced. The forms provide the medical deadline dates for each sports season.
- Return your form(s) to the Special Olympics Wisconsin State Office. The mailing address is 6582 Ronald Reagan Ave., Madison, WI 53704. You may also email your form(s) to medicals@specialolympicswisconsin.org
- All new athletes must have the required paperwork on file before they begin practicing. Please work closely with your coach, Agency Manager and/or the Athlete Medical Records Manager at the State Office to ensure medical deadlines are met. An athlete’s medical form must remain valid through the last day of the state competition in which they wish to compete. It is your responsibility to maintain a valid medical form with Special Olympics Wisconsin.
Why are the forms necessary?
The forms are similar to those required for any other sports program. They provide for:
- Necessary medical information, including a health history, health insurance information and emergency contacts, including physician, parent or guardian.
- Secondary insurance coverage by Special Olympics, Inc. as a secondary policy.
- Emergency medical treatment in the event that a parent or guardian cannot be reached.
- A photo release allowing Special Olympics Wisconsin to use any photos or video of its athletes for marketing purposes.
- Release for athletes wishing to participate in Healthy Athletes.
- Information on how athlete personal information is stored and processed.
If you have questions, contact
The Regional Athletic Director in your region.
