Special Olympics

Special Olympics is a year-round program of athletic training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Carroll County Special Olympics offers training and competition opportunities in 7 different sports. with local, area, and state-level competitions throughout the year as well as opportunities for athletes to compete at the national and international levels.

Who is eligible to participate in Special Olympics?
Any person eight years of age or older who is identified as having an intellectual disability by an agency or a professional in any given local area is considered eligible for Special Olympics.

Get Involved - Become a Volunteer! 

Volunteers are the backbone of the Special Olympics. They are coaches, trainers, officials, event organizers, fundraisers and managers. They can also be unified partners—playing alongside athletes or fans cheering in the stands. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Penny Hodgson, Local Coordinator - 330-627-6555. Thank you for your support!

2025 State Summer Games

10 Carroll County athletes, coaches and chaperones attended the 2025 Summer Games in Columbus this past weekend, competing in Bowling, Track & Fields, and BOCCE.  It was muggy and hot, but that didn’t stop us from having an amazing time. The athletes gave it their all and came out winners with multiple medals and ribbons. We also had great fun at the Olympic Village, the big Saturday night dance, our traditional surprise water balloon fight at the dorm and our many laughs and shenanigans. A special thank you to all the coaches and chaperones. Without their dedication and support the athletes would not have had such an awesome opportunity and amazing memories. Congratulations to all the Cougars for another awesome year at Summer Games!