Alternating between summer and winter, the Special Olympics World Games have become some of the most important events of the movement for inclusion around the globe. They have delivered kindness and acceptance to countries and communities that need them most and they have built a legacy of leaving host nations more willing to bring individuals with intellectual disabilities to the table – at schools, workplaces, and of course on the playing fields. Similarly, the Special Olympics USA Games take place every four years and provide incredible experiences for athletes from all over the country. The impact of the USA Games can be seen in every corner of Massachusetts. Athletes and coaches who have attended the Games are some of the most dedicated and outspoken advocates for inclusive sports in their communities.
World Winter Games: Turin, Italy
USA Games: Minneapolis, Minnesota
World Summer Games: Host TBD
World Winter Games:
Switzerland
In 2022, the Massachusetts delegation took on the rest of the nation at the USA Games in Orlando, FL bringing home Medals in basketball, bocce, bowling, flag football, golf, softball, soccer, and track & field. Along the way the team was featured on Good Morning America and local CBS News broadcasts. Check out the ten-day adventure in four minutes.
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Every four years Special Olympics Massachusetts is awarded a specific number of USA Games spots for athletes, Unified partners, coaches and support staff across selected sports – typically the most popular sports in Massachusetts, to ensure high quality competition for qualifying tournaments.
Athletes and coaches who compete in these sports will be alerted of the application process, including eligibility requirements and qualifying tournament dates.
Once all eligible athletes have been chosen, the final team will be selected at random from all qualifying athletes in each sport and ability level.
Every two years (alternating between Winter and Summer Games) Special Olympics USA is awarded a specific number of World Games spots for athletes, Unified partners, coaches, and support staff across selected. Special Olympics Massachusetts is then awarded some of those positions.
Athletes and coaches who compete in the selected sports will be alerted of the application process, including eligibility requirements and qualifying tournament dates.
Once all eligible athletes have been chosen, the final team will be selected at random from all qualifying athletes in each sport and ability level. These athletes will be recommended to Special Olympics USA for final selection.
The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games will take place in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The University of Minnesota will play host to the athletes, partners coaches and support staff with competitions taking place on campus and throughout the twin cities’ many premier sports venues. Minnesota previously hosted the 1991 Special Olympics World Summer Games.