From October 17 to 21 more than 750 athletes with intellectual disabilities will come together to compete in the 12th Special Olympics Australia National Games which are being held in Launceston, Tasmania.
Held every four years, the National Games is the premier sport event in Australia for people with intellectual disabilities and a key pathway for athletes to represent Australia at the Special Olympics World Games.The MCC Foundation has proudly partnered with Special Olympics Australia since 2019, with both organisations united by the shared goal of making sport accessible to everyone.
Special Olympics Australia is part of the global inclusion movement, using sport, health, education, and leadership programs every day to improve the lives of and empower people with intellectual disabilities.
The National Games will bring athletes from across Australia to compete in nine sports, united by the oath “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt”. Regardless of their results the athletes will celebrate their victories over huge odds and their determination in the face of adversity.
For the athletes and their families, as well as the hundreds of volunteers supporting them, the Games provide a forum to forge meaningful social and emotional connections, and inspire hope for and belief in a brighter future of inclusion, acceptance, and understanding.
To further support Team Victoria and all Special Olympics Australia athletes at the National Games, you can donate here.
A number of Team Victoria athletes were recognised in a pre-game walk at the Collingwood v Fremantle AFL Semi-Final at the MCG on September 10, and the MCG will host an official farewell for athletes on October 3.