More than 2,000 athletes and Unified Sports® partners joined over 200 coaches for an unforgettable Unified Sports® Holiday Classic, presented by the Connecticut Elks Association. With record-breaking participation, this event was our largest since 2020, surpassing this year's Summer Games.
Across multiple venues and sports, athletes competed, built friendships, and accessed free Healthy Athletes® screenings - all thanks to dedicated volunteers, sponsors, and supporters. From the lanes and courts to the platform, the weekend showcased the power of inclusion through sport.
Penguins Approved: 'Tis the Season to Plunge for a Reason
Carry the spirit of joy and generosity into the new year by registering for the Penguin Plunge NOW - Special Olympics Connecticut’s signature winter tradition.
From February through April, Plunges will take place across Connecticut, giving you plenty of time to gather your team, plan your costumes, and prepare for the thrill of the chill.
Fundraising rewards start at $150 with a signature Penguin Plunge beanie - perfect for staying warm before and after the plunge. Every jump into the cold supports year-round sports, health, and leadership programs across the state.
As we look back on the year, Special Olympics Connecticut made significant progress in advancing athlete health statewide. We increased the number of free Healthy Athletes® screenings, elevated athlete leadership through Fitness Captains and Health Messengers, expanded Fit 5 participation, and strengthened partnerships that increased access to inclusive healthcare, education, and wellness opportunities. These collective efforts - powered by our athletes, families, coaches, volunteers, and supporters - are helping athletes live healthier, more confident lives today and into the future. Thank you for making inclusive health and wellness a possibility for our athletes!
Team CT Training Underway for 2026 USA Games
Team Connecticut has officially been selected to represent our state at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games - and preparations are well underway. Thirty-nine athletes and Unified Sports® partners with the support of 19 coaches and volunteer staff have been training together by sport once a week, building skills, teamwork, and confidence as they prepare for the national stage.
The team will pause for the holidays before resuming late January, when practices will increase to two sessions per week. Training clinics and practices have already taken place at the University of Connecticut and University of Hartford, providing athletes with high-quality facilities and an elevated training experience.
This journey is made possible through the generous support of our donors and sponsors. Read more in this press release and visit Team CT's page to learn more about the team and how to support.
A Year of Impact: Our Global Messengers in Action
From sharing powerful stories to advocating for inclusion, our Global Messengers made their voices heard throughout the year. Watch the Year in Review video to see how athlete leaders helped inspire change, build understanding, and represent Special Olympics Connecticut across our communities.
Noteworthy News
Middle School Leadership Summit Teammates, coaches, and athlete leaders participated in CIAC/SOCT's Unified Sports® Middle School Leadership Summit which took place at Vale Co-op in Berlin on December 4th. Keynote Speaker Skubie Mageza of ESPN encouraged attendees to be fearless and their authentic selves. Student leaders from Cheshire High School led activities that focused on collaboration, cooperation, and fun.
Super Plunge Weekend a SPLASH
One weekend full Penguin Plunges raised $143,000+ for our athletes.
Highlights included:
Super Plunge - 22 people raised $91,000+ plunging every hour on the hour for 24 straight hours.
As a thank you for your continued support of Special Olympics Connecticut, we’re pleased to share free planning resources designed to help bring peace of mind to you and your family.
These easy-to-use guides cover essential topics like:
