The much-loved and recently deceased Kerry Stars Special Olympics Club member Vincent Lacke was remembered at a hugely successful soccer tournament held in Killarney on Sunday 9th February.

The event saw men’s and women’s teams from Kerry, Cork and Tipperary take part in a series of soccer matches filled with enthusiasm and determined performances which provided a fitting tribute to the late Vincent, who had a passion for the beautiful game.

Vincent’s sister, Mary Lyne, was on hand to provide the winners’ trophies and medals to the athletes who put on several engaging spectacles at Killarney Sports & Leisure Centre.

Athletes from three clubs attended a Grading Day on the 22nd of February in Salthill Devon FC grounds. Clubs in attendance were, Galway Football SOC, Shooting Stars SOC and Loughrea TC. Following an exciting afternoon of matches and lively banter, each club received a pack, with a variety of football equipment which has recently been sponsored by the FAI, through the Football for All Programme.

Tuam Headford Special Olympics Club was founded in 2006 as a dedicated swim club.The club expanded its horizons by introducing gymnastics in 2010 and today, operates as a multi-sport club offering swimming, gymnastics, and the Young Athletes program.

The club stands out for its diversity, boasting a wide age range of participants who bring their unique energy, talents, and enthusiasm to every training session and competition.

Women in Sport Week from 3rd to 9th March 2025 recognises the impact, achievements, and importance of women in sport – from athletes to coaches, and from referees to officials! There are various exciting events planned – read more to find out!

Special Olympics Ireland is proud to announce an inspiring new partnership with Sports Direct, a brand whose unwavering dedication to sport is encapsulated in their mission to “Champion the Legend in Everyone”.

As part of our focus on Inclusive Health, the Health & Wellbeing Programme collaborates with several universities, so that healthcare professional students can get training and experience in working with people with intellectual disability. 

Students from UCC school of Dentistry offered a full day of Special Smiles Dental screening at the Athlete Leadership Forum in September and students form UCC School of Audiology offered Healthy Hearing screening to athletes from local schools, clubs and services in December. 

The SO Healthy Athletes Programme provides athletes with access to free professional healthcare screenings in a friendly, less formal and more inviting environment, breaking down the barriers often associated with medical visits.   

Margaret Turley, Athlete, recounts her favourite parts of being the Sargent Shriver Global Messenger

Emma Griffin speaks about the Limerick City Special Olympics Club's experience at the Princess Charlene European Swim Meet in Monaco, on Live 95 Limerick!

Join us in celebrating some of the amazing Eastern Region Athlete Leaders!

The Youth Festival at DCU and the National Basketball Arena was headed up by our Eastern Region, with the help of volunteers from Donabate Portrane Special Olympics Club!