Special Olympics Athlete
To be eligible to participate in Special Olympics as an athlete, individuals must be at least 8 years old and identified by an agency or professional as having one of the following conditions: intellectual disabilities, cognitive delays as measured by formal assessment, or significant learning or vocational problems due to cognitive delay that requires or have required specially designed instruction.
A person never ages out of Special Olympics.
The Salt Lake Stars’ athletes are primarily children, teens, and adults in their 20’s but everyone is welcome!
Special Olympics athletes are required to complete the athlete registration form and medical form. The medical form must be completed every three years.
Unified Partner
The Unified Sports program was inspired by a simple principle: training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding. In Unified Sports, teams are made up of people of similar age and/or ability. Partners play an invaluable role in the lives of our athletes. Unified Partners are ages 8 and older.
Special Olympics Unified Partners are required to complete the Unified Partner Registration Form, Concussion Policy Form, and Background Check Request Form (if over 18).
Coach
When you volunteer to coach for the Stars, you are signing up for a uniquely rewarding experience. Our coaches are parents, siblings, and friends who are committed to helping our teammates discover their strengths and abilities. Coaches must be 16 years or older. Prior experience with a sport is beneficial, but not required.
Special Olympics Coaches are required to complete the Volunteer/Unified Partner Registration Form and Background Screening Request Form (if over 18). All coaches must obtain a Green Level (Class A) Volunteer status and complete the necessary training.