Athletic training and competition gives people with developmental disabilities the chance to demonstrate to the world all they are capable of achieving. It
provides a forum to compete not only in athletics but in life. Special Olympics' range of services, from motor activities programs to Unified Sports®, addresses the needs of individuals at their current functional level. It is a valuable support system that recognizes differences and celebrates accomplishments.

PROCEDURE TO BECOME AN ATHLETE:
  1. Complete the on-line Athlete Interest Form

  2. Download the Athlete Medical Form, Athlete Information Form and Release Form. Once these forms have been completed and are on file with your local area program office, an athlete can begin attending local practices in his/her preferred sport. The Athlete Medical Form is good for 3 years then must be renewed by your nurse or physician.
      ---- Athlete Medical Form
      ---- Athlete Medical Form Spanish
      ---- Athlete Information Form
      ​    ---- Athlete Release Form
      ---- Athlete Release Form Spanish
      ---- Athlete Release Form for Downs Syndrome

  3. Review the Athlete's Code of Conduct. and Important information regarding athlete medicals sheet and our Safety Protocols web page.

  4. Email the application to the Field Representative. To find your local representative click here.

  5. Someone from your Area Management team will be in contact with you about the next steps for competing. *Please note that the Area Management teams are volunteers and might be getting back to you after normal work hours, due to this we try to have someone get back to you within 2 business days. 

  6. Have your family check out the Family Handbook 
    ​
  7. See you at competitions!

*If you have not been contacted and you need further assistance please reach out to our home office at 501-771-0222

ELIGIBILITY
Sports training is open to athletes as young as eight years old. Athletes under the age of eight are welcome to participate in our Young Athletes program Developmentally disabled persons age eight years or older are eligible for competition.Developmental disability is characterized by significantly sub-average intellectual functioning, existing concurrently with related limitations in two or more of the following adaptive skill areas: communication, self-care, home living, social skills, community use, self direction, safety, functional academic, leisure and work. Developmental disability manifests before age 18. 


Athlete Frequently Asked Questions

IN ADDITION TO SPORTS COMPETITIONS
Special Olympics Arkansas offers more than just sports competitions. To learn more of what SOAR has to offer check out the programs below: