SPORTS + COMPETITION OVERVIEW
Sports are the foundation of Special Olympics Delaware with an equal emphasis on training and competition. Our goal is for athletes of ALL abilities to be able to train, compete, and enjoy the joy of sports.
The sign-up dates listed below are when athletes will be able to sign-up for the season and sport of their choosing. If you are having issues or need additional assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to the main office – 302.831.4653
FALL
Sports Season
Fall sports are offered from August – November
Fall Sport Sign-Ups: July 1 – August 15
Culminating at the Fall Sports Festival, over 500 athletes and Unified partners from across the state come together to compete. The 4 Fall sports offered are flag football, soccer, bocce, and long distance running. A Young Athletes Program is also provided during this sport season.
WINTER
Sports Season
Winter sports are offered from November – March.
Winter Sport Sign-Ups: Open Oct 1 – Nov 15
These culminating sport celebration events are often held at different locations and updates are shared with participants and families. The 4 Winter sports offered are basketball, cross country skiing, figure skating, and snowshoeing. A Young Athletes Program is also provided during this sport season.
SPRING
Sports Season
Spring sports are offered from March – June
Spring Sport Sign: February 1 – March 15
Culminating at Summer Games, over 500 athletes and Unified partners from across the state come together to compete. The 6 Spring sports offered are bocce, powerlifting, softball, swimming, tennis, and track and field. A Young Athletes Program is also provided during this sport season.
Please Note: Athletes may sign up, train and compete in one sport for Summer Games
SUMMER
Sports Season
Summer sports are offered from June – September.
Summer Sport Sign-Ups: May 1 – June 15
Three sports are offered during the summer sport season – Golf, Cycling, and Bowling. Culminating events for each sport are held on separate dates, thus athletes may Sign-up to participate in more than one sport during this season. Keep in mind that practices for each sport may overlap – in which case participation in more than one sport will not be feasible.
MATP + YAPs
The Motor Activity Training Program (MATP) is designed to prepare athletes with severe or profound intellectual disabilities, for sport-specific activities appropriate for their abilities.
The Young Athletes Program (YAP) is designed to introduce young children (age 2 through 7) to the world of Special Olympics.
ADVANCEMENT
Opportunities
USA + WORLD GAMES
Every 4 years Special Olympics USA and World Games are held. Click the button below to learn more about these additional opportunities and selection criteria and requirements.
Connect
With Us!
Special Olympics Delaware
619 South College Ave.
Newark, Delaware 19716
302.831.4653 / info@sode.org