SOMO News
2025 Athlete Leadership University: Empowering Athletes with New Skills and Memories
From June 27-29, Special Olympics Missouri hosted the 2025 Athlete Leadership University (ALPs) at the Mexico Military Academy, bringing together 34 dedicated athletes for an unforgettable weekend of learning, growth, and fun. This year’s event was filled with new opportunities, team-building activities, and memories that will last a lifetime.
ALPs offered five exciting new classes, expanding the range of skills athletes could develop. Whether it was leadership, communication, or specialized training in their chosen fields, each class was designed to engage and inspire. Additionally, we debuted two brand new degrees—Event Planning and Visual Arts—allowing athletes to further explore their interests and prepare for future endeavors. These programs open up new doors for leadership within the Special Olympics community and beyond, fostering empowerment through education.
Throughout the weekend, the atmosphere was alive with teamwork and camaraderie as athletes worked together, bonded over shared experiences, and celebrated each other’s successes. The sense of community was palpable, with everyone contributing to a supportive and inclusive environment.
As always, the fun didn’t stop at the classroom doors. With interactive team-building exercises and plenty of time to connect, participants forged lasting friendships and created countless memories. Whether it was the excitement of new learning opportunities, the laughter shared during group activities, or the joy of seeing new degrees introduced, the weekend was filled with moments of pride and growth for everyone involved.
This year’s ALPs was more than just an event—it was an opportunity for athletes to explore their potential, connect with peers, and discover new paths for the future. The lessons learned, the skills gained, and the bonds formed will continue to inspire athletes long after the weekend has ended.
We want to thank all the athletes, volunteers, and staff who made this year’s ALPs a success. We look forward to building on this momentum in the years to come, offering even more opportunities for growth and empowerment for our amazing athletes.