Enrollment

To enroll to become an athlete, first download the athlete registration form.   

Special Olympics International has notified state programs that the physician’s signature on the athlete registration for participation in Special Olympics at the local, area, regional and state level will no longer be required for participation.

To provide a safe environment, the health history will remain a requirement and an important part of athlete registration that will serve as the minimum standard to join the movement. All current athlete medicals will be valid until July 1, 2025 unless the athlete medical expires before that date. By July 1, 2025, all athletes should provide an updated athlete registration including an updated health history form. Updated registration will consist of an updated athlete registration including all pages except for the doctor’s examination and signature page. This registration will be valid for 1 year. After the updated registration is completed initially, there will be a renewal form that will be required annually. A medical form signed by a physician will remain a requirement for all SONA Regional Invitationals, USA Games and World Games.

Your first step

(Renewing? See this renewal link instead): 

(Downloadable en español version).   

Unified Partners over the age of 18 do not need to complete the Unified Partner form, they simply need to complete all the standard steps of the volunteer process.   If you're under 18 and plan on being a Unified partner, download the Youth Unified Partner form. 

After completing the Athlete Registration Form, email the Athlete Registration Form to your local Special Olympics Texas Program Director (Find them with the 'Contact' tab in your specific area).  If you do not know who your local area director is, please message [email protected] to be put in touch with the correct staff member.  

Benefits of Participation: There are many benefits to participating as an athlete with Special Olympics Texas:

• Physical exercise positively impacts health, mood and anxiety.
• Emphasis on sports training helps athletes maintain a healthy weight.
• Athletes participate in activities that enhance their self-esteem and help them see that they can achieve goals that they set for themselves.
• Athletes have many opportunities to make new friends and socialize in an environment that is accepting and encouraging.
• Travel opportunities allow athletes to gain life experiences and skills that will positively impact all areas of their lives.
• The Athlete Leadership Programs offer athletes opportunities to get involved in decision-making, public speaking, and leadership roles in their communities.