We are a branch of Special Olympics Great Britain and since 1987 we have supported child and adult athletes with learning disabilities on the Isle of Wight. Our athletes train in a variety of sports to a standard where they can compete regionally, nationally and beyond. Our main events are Athletics, Table Tennis, Badminton and Long Mat Indoor Bowls. In addition to our volunteer coaches, the P.E.
Department of Carisbrooke College provides us with suitable students to help us with one of our four weekly sessions, which benefits the students as well as the athletes. Several of our former student helpers have secured employment as a direct result of their work with us. Our athletes and volunteers benefit enormously from the training we provide and attending events. They are required to train on a weekly basis for competitions at regional level, and to progress to national and possibly even international levels is a great incentive for them. Special Olympics Mission Statement:
To provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities by giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community
