Special Olympics Clubs – Sydney East is a sports club based in Sydney that is proud to be part of the Special Olympics network. Special Olympics is a global sporting community that provides opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate in a range of sports, recreation, social, and health activities. Special Olympics Clubs – Sydney East aims to ensure that people with intellectual disabilities have fun, stay healthy, build self-esteem, demonstrate courage, and make friends.
Special Olympics Australia, of which Special Olympics Clubs – Sydney East is a part of, is a local impact organisation that originated in 1976. The organisation seeks public support to ensure that individuals with intellectual disabilities are not shut out from society. By providing opportunities to play sports, Special Olympics Australia opens doors to personal achievement, pride, and inclusion for marginalised and isolated members of the community.
Special Olympics Clubs – Sydney East believes in the power of sport to create a better world, much like the Olympics and Paralympics. While the Olympics and Paralympics focus on elite athletes, Special Olympics is a year-round multi-sports programme for individuals with intellectual disabilities of all capabilities. Special Olympics athletes also have access to robust competition pathways, including the World Games, which is hosted on a four-year cycle in summer and winter sports.
Intellectual disability is a condition that can make it challenging for individuals to perform basic tasks like reading, handling money, or using public transport. However, this does not mean that individuals with intellectual disabilities cannot learn or succeed. They may learn differently and require more time and support. Special Olympics Australia recognises that individuals with intellectual disabilities have hidden talents that can be uncovered through participation in sports.
Special Olympics Clubs – Sydney East welcomes individuals with intellectual disabilities to join and participate in their sports programmes. By donating, volunteering, or participating, individuals can support Special Olympics Australia in increasing their reach and spreading the joy of sport and community to more individuals with intellectual disabilities.