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Athlete Leadership

Through participation in Special Olympics sports, athletes gain
confidence, self-esteem and personal skills. With this new
confidence, some athletes wish to pursue other opportunities
within the Special Olympics programme either in addition to their sport or as a follow on from past participation.

Athlete Leadership encourages athletes to develop skills which will empower them to be advocates for all athletes and act as a Leader for Special Olympics.

Becoming involved in Athlete Leadership provides athletes with
many new and different opportunities. Training is provided to
athletes who wish to become Athlete Leaders. The training helps athletes to build on their confidence and self-esteem and
encourages them to contribute to the organisation in a wider
context. It also gives athletes a voice in spreading the word about the positive change Special Olympics can bring to individuals and

Who Can be part of ATHLETE LEADERSHIP?

Anyone who is over 16 years old and who is currently a Special Olympics athlete or who has been a Special Olympics athlete in the past can join Athlete Leadership. The athlete will work with a mentor (registered volunteer) who is at least 18 years old to achieve their goals within Athlete Leadership. These athletes, while working with their mentor, can take on volunteering roles, ambassadorial roles, committee work and also take part in the Awards Scheme if they so choose.

For more information regarding Athlete Leadership, please contact the Connaught office on 071-9118320 or Connaught@specialolympics.ie

How can I get involved in Athlete Leadership?

Find a mentor: All  Athlete Leaders must have a mentor, who must be over 18 and a registered volunteer with Special Olympics Ireland. A mentor is like your very own personal assistant who is there to help you with your activities.  Athletes can register for Athlete Leadership through their regional office.

Awards