Any individual, eight years of age or older, who has an intellectual disability is eligible for participation in Special Olympics. Individuals who have multiple disabilities are also eligible to participate so long as one of the disabilities is an intellectual disability. All Special Olympics athletes must agree to observe and abide by the SOC Sports Rules and SOO's policies and procedures.
"Intellectual Disability" refers to substantial limitation in present functioning. An intellectual disability is characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills. This exists concurrently with related limitations in two or more of the following applicable adaptive skill areas: communication, self care, home living, social skills, community use, self direction, health and safety, functional academics, leisure and work. Intellectual disabilities manifest themselves before the age of 18.
