When the first Special Olympics were held in 1968, over 1,000 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) showed the world that they could compete in and find community through sports.
Today, Special Olympics has become a movement that celebrates the camaraderie among athletes, coaches, families, and volunteers.
Sean, a resident at Gabriel Homes, has competed in Special Olympics soccer since 1997.
His coach, Marc Egan (first photo, left), focuses on building one-on-one relationships with his players and helps each player shine in their best position. Sean’s athleticism, combined with Marc’s coaching style, has led to several key victories for their team this season.
“I play in the midfield and score several goals each year. Scoring feels great! I’m much better at soccer today thanks to great coaches like Marc.”
Special Olympics soccer can be an outlet for athletes who crave competition. Amber (first photo, right), one of Sean’s teammates, has played soccer for over 30 years. As a former travel player, Amber has a keen eye for the goal and plays forward.
“Soccer is my passion. Compared to travel, Special Olympics is such a kind place. It lets me meet people with great sportsmanship, and I can do what I love most, competing. I recently scored five goals in two games!”
The same love of sports runs deep in families like Marc’s.
His brother David’s (front) first sport was Special Olympics swimming before picking up softball and soccer. Since Marc took over coaching from his dad, David holds his brother accountable for letting everyone play.
“This season of Special Olympics is one of change,” David says. “Sports like Special Olympics soccer show the magic of the athletes and the beauty of sports.”
Special Olympics leagues are growing rapidly worldwide.
In Virginia, Sean’s powerlifting league went on pause in 2020 due to COVID, but he returned to becoming a perennial state champion against tougher competition. David sees this period of expansion for Special Olympics as a key moment to push for more inclusion for people with IDD.
“The outreach by Special Olympics and support from families are overwhelming. Special Olympics proves that adults with IDD deserve the same opportunities. Let’s get more athletes out there and give them an equal playing field.”