Special Olympics WA is a sports club located in Perth, Western Australia, dedicated to providing special moments of joy and confidence to people with intellectual disabilities. They believe in giving individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to play sports on their own terms, setting their own goals and dreams, and celebrating their achievements with their loved ones.
Under the umbrella of Special Olympics Australia, a global movement for people with intellectual disabilities, the organisation in Western Australia aims to transform lives and improve the inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics was founded in Australia in 1976, during a time when many people with intellectual disabilities were confined to institutions. While this is no longer the norm in Australia, public support is still crucial to ensure that people with intellectual disabilities are included and given opportunities to participate in sports.
Special Olympics WA is committed to increasing their reach and impact in the community. With only 3,000 athletes currently participating, out of an estimated 850,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism in Australia, they rely on the support of donors, volunteers, and participants to spread the joy of sport to a wider audience.
While the Olympics and Paralympics focus on elite athletes, Special Olympics provides a year-round multi-sports programme for individuals with intellectual disabilities of all capabilities. They offer robust competition pathways, including the World Games held every four years, which covers both summer and winter sports.
It is important to understand what intellectual disability means. Individuals with intellectual disabilities may find it challenging to perform basic tasks such as reading, handling money, or taking public transport. However, it does not mean that they cannot learn or succeed in these tasks. They may simply learn differently or require extra time and support.
Special Olympics WA strives to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals with intellectual disabilities can learn, grow, and achieve their dreams.
Unlike physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities are not always immediately obvious. However, Special Olympics WA recognises and appreciates the unique abilities of their athletes and the determination they bring to their sports. They celebrate the achievements of their athletes and highlight the importance of focusing on what they can do, rather than what others may think they cannot do.
By joining Special Olympics WA, individuals with intellectual disabilities have the opportunity to be part of a supportive sports community and experience the transformative power of sports. Through their programmes and events, Special Olympics WA aims to create a positive impact in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities, promote inclusivity, and change perceptions about what people with intellectual disabilities can achieve.