At Special Olympics, we believe that sports can teach us all important lessons.

 

HOW TO BECOME AN ATHLETE

STEP 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

When you join Special Olympics Pennsylvania, you’re joining a group of strong, ambitious competitors. Special Olympics athletes are eight years old or older and have an intellectual disability, a cognitive delay or a developmental disability.

STEP 2: Complete Your Registration

To become eligible for Special Olympics Pennsylvania (SOPA) training, competition, and programming, a Special Olympics Application for participation (Medical Form) is required.  The Medical Form requires a physical examination by a physician or authorized medical personnel (MD, DO, PA or CRNP,). The SOPA Medical Form is valid for 3 years from the date of the physician or authorized medical personnel signature.   We will only accept our SOPA Medical Form to be eligible to participate in our programming.   We will NOT accept any other types of medical forms.     

WE WANT TO GET YOU IN THE GAME!

We are currently training for Winter season 

Fall Sports offered: Bowling and Young Athletes

Follow these steps:

  • Find your desired sport below and fill out the signup form by clicking on the sport.
  • After the signup period, your coach will reach out with more information about the season.  
  • If you are a new athlete or have not participated within the last 3 years, after you sign up you will receive a follow-up email from Michelle Cordell, Sports Director on your next steps.

IMPORTANT: Signing up does not guarantee participation. Participation is dependent on available volunteers. We will create a waiting list if rosters become full.

Winter Sign Up Forms

If you would like more information about sport options in your area or have questions, please reach out to Michelle Cordell at mcordell@specialolympicspa.org 

 If you are unsure if you or the athlete you are signing up are eligible, take a look at our Statement of Eligibility (PDF). People without intellectual disabilities can take part in Unified Sports teams that bring people with and without intellectual disabilities together to train and compete on the same teams.

 

SIGN-UP SEASONS AT A GLANCE

 

For a list of all the sports we offer per season, please check out our Community-Based Program.

 


 

PRACTICES & COMPETITION CALENDAR