PARTICIPATE ONCE. BE FOREVER CHANGED AND INSPIRED.
Special Olympics is sports and so much more. It is a movement that transforms lives by inspiring inclusion, understanding, and respect for people of all abilities on and beyond the playing field, across the state, and around the world.
About SOCT
Special Olympics Connecticut provides year-round sports training and competitions for nearly 14,000 athletes and Unified Sports® partners. We also promote a healthy lifestyle by offering free health screenings at events, and providing participants with the education and resources to improve their sports performance and enhance their overall health and fitness.
There are opportunities for everyone to be part of SOCT and enjoy a meaningful and rewarding experience - as an athlete, Unified Sports® partner, coach, volunteer, supporter, or fan.
Featured Sport Event
2026 Traditional Basketball Tournament
Join us Saturday, March 21 for the Special Olympics Connecticut Traditional Basketball Tournament and Individual Skills Competition held across seven venues in Waterbury. Opening Ceremonies take place at 9:00 AM and competition concludes around 4:00 PM. Spectators are welcome free of charge.
Featured Fundraiser
Jersey Mike's Month of Giving
Special Olympics is joining forces with Jersey Mike’s Subs for its 16th annual Month of Giving campaign this March! Customers can donate in-store, online, or on the Jersey Mike's app all month long. This campaign culminates on the Day of Giving, March 25, when 100% of sales will benefit Special Olympics.
Featured Special Event
2026 Penguin Plunge Season
Join the coolest fundraiser in Connecticut! We still have four Penguin Plunges left, including Brookfield March 21, Tolland & Monroe March 28, & Fairfield April 11. Or learn more about our NEW Mobile Plunge unit, where we bring the Plunge to YOU! Be bold and GET COLD - register today and make a splash for a cause!
Year-Round Partner Sponsors
Our Programs
Local Programs
Special Olympics Connecticut has nearly 70 local programs across the state, offering Olympic-style sports training and competitions year-round.
Healthy Athletes® Program
We’re proud to provide free health screenings and educate athletes about fitness, nutrition, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Unified Sports® in Schools
As part of an effort to reach school-aged athletes, SOCT partners with the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) to bring Special Olympics Unified Sports® to schools across the state.
Upcoming Events
Find all of the upcoming events for Special Olympics Connecticut on our calendar, including health and wellness events, sports and fitness programs, and special events.