Special Olympics offers opportunities for everyone, even those with the most severe limitations, to train and participate.
Everyone Can Play. Athletes of every ability can participate, and those with severe limitations can take part in the Motor Activities Training Program.
No one is excluded at Special Olympics, even at a World Games event.
Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Program (MATP) is designed for persons with severe limitations who do not yet possess the physical and/or behavioral skills necessary to participate in official Special Olympics sports. MATP provides a comprehensive motor activity and recreation training curriculum, emphasizing training and participation rather than competition. The program helps participants develop motor skills with tasks such as pushing a ball, or stepping across a low bar. Some athletes who participate in MATP will progress to lower ability events in sports such as gymnastics or bowling, but even for those who cannot, MATP participation improves their coordination and social skills.
When MATP participants reach the necessary readiness and skill levels, every Special Olympics sport provides an appropriate transition into that sport at an introductory level. Specific events are identified in most sports for athletes with low ability level.
To get involved in MATP, contact your local Special Olympics Program. Find Special Olympics near you.