Provides organized athletic practices and contests, including track and field, swimming, wrestling, golf, gymnastics, soccer, basketball, volleyball, softball, bowling, etc. for youth and adults with mental retardation, developmental disabilities, and physical impairment. There are many opportunities to volunteer for the Special Olympics as well.

Special Olympics is open to every person (5 years of age or older) with an intellectual disability, regardless of the level or degree of that person’s disability.

Athletes must be at least 8 years old to compete at a sports competition. Athletes between 5-7 years of age can attend practices but cannot compete.

There is no cost to any athlete to join the Special Olympics Ohio Greater Dayton or to compete in any of the competitions. Costs associated are shared by the Special Olympics Ohio state office and area programs that cover the costs of training, uniforms, registration fees, and travel for all levels of competition.

Current operations during COVID-19

• Safety measures are in place for outdoor activities: masks, hand sanitizer, social distancing
• Indoor sports are still on hold
• The bowling event was cancelled this year
• No current status on track and field activities