Teams are encouraged to host sports and games
that go beyond SOMN’s 16 traditional sports.  

Our recreational sports model starts with one question: What does your team want to do?

With the addition of recreational sports, teams can now offer even more opportunities for their athletes!

The benefit of recreational sports is that teams can support fitness and social opportunities with activities that appeal and cater directly to the interest of its athletes. Here are just a few suggestions:

  • Beanbags/cornhole
  • Biking club
  • BMX biking
  • Cheerleading
  • Dance
  • Fishing
  • Frisbee golf
  • Horseshoes
  • Ice skating
  • Pickleball
  • Soccer
  • Ultimate Frisbee
  • Walking club
  • Yoga
  • Volleyball
  • And anything else you can dream up!

To be officially recognized as a Special Olympics event, there will be some requirements for teams to follow. Teams will still need to fill out paperwork, adhere to the 4:1 coach ratio (coaches must be Level 1 certified) and register with SOMN. And of course there will be activities that we can’t approve (no knife-throwing, please!), so you’ll need to clear events with the state office prior to starting.

But don’t worry: We’ll make it super easy for you. We can provide instructions, best practices, and other ideas and materials for teams so you feel empowered to run a sport season on your own. Just like our traditional sports, you’ll be in charge of managing the activities, but we’ll help you out along the way. And when you register your event, you can use your Centralized Account funds!

As a bonus, you’ll receive an opportunity to become a Champion Delegation! And all athletes who participate will receive a SOMN recreation pin–a great way to celebrate your accomplishments.

Already have an idea and want to get started?

Have a recreation season planned? Let us know!

Want to know more information before starting?

Take recreational activities to the next level!