Reporter Henry McKeane interviews athlete Edel Armstrong at our Athlete Leadership Forum

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 that 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. We provide training 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 families. 

Areas Athletes can get involved in

Awards Scheme

For athletes who are both ready and wish to take on an additional challenge, we have established an awards scheme which encourages athletes to complete various projects and tasks, with the support of their mentor, in order to achieve an award.

There are three levels of award: Bronze, Silver and Gold.

Athletes can participate in workshops and training enabling them to decide on which project they would like to take on.  The athlete and mentor will agree on the activity and time commitment prior to undertaking the award.

Participation in the awards scheme is not compulsory for any athlete who wishes to become a leader in the Special Olympics programme.

Who can take part?

Any athlete, with the assistance of a mentor, can participate in Athlete Leadership. You must be over 16 years of age, while mentors must be over 18 years of age. Both the athlete and the mentor must be registered members of Special Olympics. Mentors may support one, two or more athletes at the same time, depending on the level of support the athlete may require.  

Athlete Leadership
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