Unified Sports are designed to bring together equal numbers of athletes with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team with others of similar skill levels. Special Olympics Unified® Sports could include bocce, bowling, basketball, flag football, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball. Unified Partners must be at least 8 years old to participate and there is no age maximum.
All six of our areas offer Unified Sports. To find out what Unified Sports are offered in your area, contact your area staff.
Follow the steps below to sign up to become a Unified partner:
-
Fill out the *NEW* Combined Unified Partner/Class A Volunteer registration form. (Under 18? Fill out the Minor Unified Partner/Class A Volunteer registration form instead.)
-
If you’re 18 or older, fill out the background check information through Sterling Volunteers.
-
Complete Protective Behaviors training through the Special Olympics learning portal. Save the certificate as proof of completion.
Special Olympics athletes (individuals with intellectual disabilities and community partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities)
- Inclusive sports program with approximately equal numbers of athletes and partners of similar age and ability
- Compete without modification of Special Olympics Official Sports Rules
- Teams may be eligible for advancement to State, Regional and World Games