SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities has operated the Special Olympics program since its creation in 1970 for youth and adults served in Wood County. In 1990, the program expanded to include youth who received special education services from their local school district or the Wood County Educational Service Center. Today, there are more than 500 active participants in Special Olympics sports throughout Wood County.


You are eligible to participate in Special Olympics if you are age 8 and older, with no maximum age limit to compete. Competition is based upon age, gender, and ability.

VOLUNTEER FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS JOIN SPECIAL OLYMPICS TODAY!

Join us as we celebrate a very special milestone — the 20th Anniversary of the Dolores A. Black Gymnasium and our annual Athlete Banquet hosted by Wood County Special Olympics! 


This event honors the incredible legacy of Dolores A. Black and her lasting contributions to the history and heart of Wood County Special Olympics. Her namesake gym continues to serve not only our athletes but the entire community. 


We'll also take this time to recognize and celebrate our amazing athletes and their families for their dedication, spirit, and accomplishments. 


You MUST register to attend. All current WCSO athletes may bring up to three (3) guests. 


REGISTER HERE or you may scan the QR code provided.

Why Should You Join Special Olympics?

Participation in sports goes beyond the experiences of training and competing. Involvement in Special Olympics gives people access to improved

  • ✔ Physical fitness
  • ✔ Self confidence
  • ✔ Chance to expand their circle of friends in the community

Athletes gain confidence when learning a new skill by interacting with other athletes and volunteers. These experiences enhance relationships, socialization, and help athletes discover new strengths, abilities, skills, and success. Athletes are a key part of the community as good neighbors, valuable employees and involved citizens.

There’s a Sport for Everyone!

Athletes regularly train throughout the season, typically with practices scheduled once or twice a week. Games or events are scheduled, with certified officials, throughout each sport season and athletes have the opportunity to advance to area, sectional and state competitions.

Athletes regularly train throughout the season, typically with practices scheduled once or twice a week. Games or events are scheduled, with certified officials, throughout each sport season and athletes have the opportunity to advance to area, sectional and state competitions.

Jen Black

Provider Relations Coordinator

ANGIE BLAKE

Provider Relations Specialist-Trainer

Kristen Varallo

Provider Relations Specialist

Contact Us

Get Started

If you would like to participate in Special Olympics, please visit our Special Olympics Registration Page. If you have questions regarding Special Olympics events, please contact Jen Krouse

Volunteers Are the Key to Our Success

Volunteers are key to our success. More than 100 volunteers assist with our Special Olympics program by serving as coaches, assistants or chaperons at practices and competitions annually. Some volunteers enjoy the experience of training and playing alongside an athlete in a unified sport such as golf. If you would like to volunteer with Special Olympics, CLICK HERE.