News

Special Olympics Ireland CEO, Matt English, has been awarded the Outstanding Achievement for Contribution to Irish Sport at the 2025 Irish Sport Industry Awards. As he prepares to retire after 17 years at the helm, this honour celebrates Matt’s exceptional leadership, tireless dedication, and unwavering commitment to inclusion. Read more about Matt’s incredible journey and well-deserved recognition

Leinster equestrian athletes put in excellent performances at the Leinster Equestrian Regionals on May 15th and 16th in Kylebrook Equestrian Centre.

Meet volunteer Audrey Barry, who began volunteering with Special Olympics through her workplace after growing up beside a Special Olympics athlete. She's gone on to have unforgettable experiences while making a real difference.

Meet Leinster athlete Deirdre Nevin, a multi-sport marvel with a positive attitude and big dreams!

On May 11th, athletes from across the Leinster and Eastern regions gathered at the Clayton Hotel for a day of inspiration, learning, and celebration. The Athlete Leadership Forum kicked off with registration and a warm welcome, followed by a series of exciting and engaging workshops designed to empower and equip participants.

Special Olympics Ireland has today launched its first ever Young Athletes™ Impact Report. Established in 2017 with eir as its founding partner, the programme is designed for children aged 4 to 12 with intellectual disabilities, focusing on play-based physical activities that build fundamental movement skills such as running, catching, throwing, and balance. It provides a vital early foundation for lifelong participation in sport.

European Football Week, the annual week where we join with organisations across the continent to promote inclusion and activity in football, kicks off on 24th May, and we have great thing planned!

Five-time Hurling All-Ireland winner Declan Hannon, together with Special Olympics gold medallists Emma Costello and Anita Forde are calling on companies across Ireland to “reach new heights in support of Special Olympics”, by signing-up to the Croke Park Abseil. Proudly sponsored by eir, the Special Olympics Croke Park Abseil will see participants raise vital, life-changing funds for athletes with an intellectual disability, while pushing themselves to abseil down 150ft from the roof of one of Ireland’s most iconic sporting landmarks. Eir and Special Olympics Ireland are celebrating 40-years of continuous charity partnership in 2025, making it one of the longest running charity partnerships in Europe.

Special Olympics Ireland works towards a world where a child can find a supportive place to play, learn and grow.