updated January 10, 2025
In Special Olympics Athlete Leadership, we partner with athlete leaders to educate people about the abilities of our athletes, provide leadership and skills training to enable athletes to be successful and support them in leadership roles inside and outside the movement.
Fitness Captains
Fitness Captains are athletes who lead their team in activities related to wellness and a healthy lifestyle. They use their leadership and communication skills to encourage and empower fellow athletes to be healthy and fit. Fitness Captains are chosen after an HOD nominates them for this position.
All trainings are held from 5:30-7 PM. Dates and times subject to change. All classes will be held virtually.
February 4 and 6
May 13 and 15
August 11 and 13
December 3 and 5
Global Messengers
The role of an athlete spokesperson is to promote, educate and inform others about the mission, benefits and direction of Special Olympics Minnesota. This position goes beyond giving public speeches and interviews: It is about spreading the word about the Special Olympics movement in different ways.
At Special Olympics Minnesota we offer Rookie (new to the program) and Varsity (experienced) Global Messenger roles. Courses will be offered for both positions throughout the year.
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Rookie sessions |
Varsity sessions April 17 | 5-7 PM July 15 | 6-8 PM September 10 | 5-7 PM December 8 | 5-7 PM |
Athlete Leadership Council
The Athlete Leadership Council (ALC) provides a channel for athletes’ opinions and feedback to be given in a collective manner for the purpose of enhancing the athlete experience and strengthening the area and state programs. The state council is comprised of two representatives from each of the 15 areas in Minnesota.
The first Athlete Leadership Council meeting will take place Thursday, March 13 at 6 PM.
Our second meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 9 at 6 PM.
Health Messengers
Special Olympics Health Messengers are athletes who are trained to serve as health and wellness leaders, educators, advocates and role models within their Special Olympics communities, as well as the community at large. They are leading their teams, families, friends and communities to pursue healthy lifestyles, and are advocating for healthcare providers and governments to adopt inclusive policies around health, wellness services, education and resources for people with intellectual disabilities.
Trainings are paused as we focus on the health messengers currently registered with Special Olympics Minnesota. If you would like to hear more about this opportunity, please contact Annie Dierberger.