What is SOTX? (Special Olympics Texas)
At Special Olympics Texas, the Special Olympics is the world's largest sports organization for individuals with intellectual disabilities that opens the playing field. there is a place for everyone, from athlete to coach, volunteer, and more. Be a part of Special Olympics Texas and feel proud about your involvement in the movement that is changing lives! TSD has been fortunate to be part of the organization in Texas. The athletics program provides students with ample opportunities to build self-confidence in participating in physical activities and collaborating with other athletes.
Vision
It is our vision to become the premier provider of Special Olympics training and competition in the world. We approach each endeavor with a single intent - to improve the quality of life for our athletes. The challenges of the future are embraced with enthusiasm and commitment, ensuring that the changing face and needs of our athletes are met.
Mission
The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
For more information, please click http://www.sotx.org/
SOTX Sports at TSD
There is a wide array of sports in the Special Olympics and TSD has participated in these sports; Swimming, Flag Football, Bowling, Basketball, Soccer, Track & Field and they are categorized by gender, age, and ability.
Participants as TSD SOTX (Eligibility)
Student-Athlete at TSD may begin training as early as 6th grade at TSD and participate in the various sports till 12th grade. A person must also be identified by an agency or professional as having one of the following:
- Intellectual Disabilities
- Closely related development disability, which means having functional limitations in both general learning and in adaptive skills such as recreation, work, independent living, self-direction, or self-care.
Benefits of Participation
There are many benefits to participating as an athlete with Special Olympics Texas:
- Physical exercise positively impacts health, mood and anxiety.
- Emphasis on sports training helps athletes maintain a healthy weight.
- Athletes participate in activities that enhance their self-esteem and help them see that they can achieve goals that they set for themselves.
- Athletes have many opportunities to make new friends and socialize in an environment that is accepting and encouraging.
- Travel opportunities allow athletes to gain life experiences and skills that will positively impact all areas of their lives.
- The Athlete Leadership Programs offer athletes opportunities to get involved in decision-making, public speaking, and leadership roles in their communities.