About
lifting spirits worldwide
Special Olympics Cheer is part of a global movement transforming the lives of athletes with intellectual disabilities. Through the sport of Cheer, athletes strengthen skills in leadership, athleticism and performance while bringing about unity and inclusion in their community.
To begin with, in 2018, Special Olympics and the International Cheer Union (the world governing body of cheerleading) formed a partnership to expand the sport of Cheer globally. Subsequently, in 2019, Cheer officially became a recognized sport for Special Olympics.
At the present time, there are over 20 programs in the USA as well as several Programs in Latin America, Europe and Asia. To grow the sport of Cheer on every continent and in every country, it takes commitment and dedication of the athletes, unified partners, coaches, volunteers and families.
Whether starting a Special Olympics Cheer Program or joining an existing one, it is important to know and understand what to expect. Below are links that will guide you to information about the two components of Cheer – competition and game day/sideline. In addition, links to participating in SO Cheer virtual cheer clinics and signing-up for special cheer events.
competitive
Special Olympics offers competitive sports for every season – Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer. The local SO Program will determine the season for competitive cheer.
To learn more about competitive cheer click here.
game day/sideline(non-competitive)
Game Day/Sideline Cheer is a unique and wonderful part of the Special Olympics cheer program. It is the key component to unity, inclusion and spreading cheer to the surrounding community.
To learn more about Game Day/Sideline click here.
virtual clinics
The Special Olympics Cheer Sport Resource Team hosts a monthly virtual cheer clinic for athletes and coaches worldwide.
To learn more on the virtual clinics click here.
events
Game Day/Sideline Programs have been organized at 5 major Special Olympics events. Special Olympics, Special Abilities and Unified Cheer teams are welcome to participate.
To learn more about upcoming events click here.
Mission
To grow and develop the sport of Cheer for Special Olympics Programs worldwide.
Vision
Provide guidance and support to those who would like to start or are part of an existing Special Olympics Cheer Program.