News

Our athletes dedicated a full 8 weeks to learning Olympic Style weight lifting and they did not dissapoint! This brilliant pilot with Weight Lifting Ireland was a huge success, with athletes showing skill, grit and ability in every lesson and lift!

Read all about Team South Galways Swim meet, the athletes personal bests, and which other teams came to compete & enjoy the day!

Meet Mei Lin Yap — a trailblazer for inclusion and perseverance. Awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws by Trinity College Dublin, she becomes the first person in Ireland with an intellectual disability to receive this distinction. A champion swimmer, global competitor, and long-time volunteer with Special Olympics Ireland, Mei Lin continues inspiring others through advocacy, storytelling and unwavering optimism. Her journey shows that when inclusion, opportunity and belief come together, incredible things can happen. Read more about her story and how she’s shaping a more inclusive Ireland.

Experience the highlights of the Special Olympics Ulster Athlete Leadership Forum, held on Saturday 15 November at Dromantine Retreat and Conference Centre, Newry. This year’s theme, Technology & Leadership, brought together 41 athletes and 26 mentors from clubs across Ulster for a day of learning, connection and fun. Wayne Denner shared valuable tips on staying safe online and using technology positively, while Nicole O’Connor introduced athletes to the creative and responsible use of AI. With warm hospitality, a memorable sing-song during a surprise fire alarm, and AI-made Christmas cards for C L A R E CIC, it was an inspiring and uplifting event

European Basketball Week brings together athletes, volunteers and coaches to celebrate the joy of sport, skill development and community. This document highlights the events, training opportunities and youth programmes taking place across the region, showcasing the impact basketball continues to have in creating inclusive and supportive sporting environments for all.

A new resource that can help clubs get to know their athletes better – their likes, dislikes, needs and helpful accommodations – is now available for download from our website.

The Motor Activities Training Program is getting a boost with new resources available to assist volunteers and coaches in how to train and help athletes in multiple specific skill areas.

2025 was a landmark year for the Special Olympics Ireland Young Athletes Programme, as Young Athletes Festivals were held for the first time.

On November 15th, athletes completing the Athlete Leadership Programme from Laochra Laoise Special Olympics Club showcased their hard work through a series of brilliant presentations.