Young Athletes™ Program

The Young Athletes Program is a curriculum recently created to introduce children ages 2 ½ through 7, with and without intellectual disabilities, to the world of sports, engaging them in developmentally appropriate play activities designed to foster their physical, cognitive, and social needs in a variety of learning situations.

Over the last two years Special Olympics Colorado has concentrated its efforts on ensuring the future success of the organization by realizing that more emphasis should be placed on the continued growth of our younger population.  SOCO has recognized the need for an increase in outreach and support to children under the age of 8 who are not yet eligible to participate in our traditional sports training and competitions. We are excited to announce that we are gradually expanding our services throughout the state to include a Young Athletes™ program (YAP).        

In 2008, the Young Athletes™ pilot program was introduced to 5 preschools within the Cherry Creek School District.  24 inclusive preschool classrooms (sites) implemented the program with a total of 297 preschoolers actively participating in the Special Olympics Young Athletes™ sports activities. 

In 2009, SOCO expanded the Young Athletes™ Program to a total of 57 sites including 52 inclusive preschool classrooms and 5 local program sites serving over 650 new Young Athletes and Unified Sports® Partners throughout the state.

For the 2010-2011 school year SOCO plans to expand the Young Athletes™ Program into 23 new sites including 20 new inclusive preschool classrooms and 3 new local program sites.

Due to the newness of this program it is not yet established in all areas.  Opportunities to start a Young Athletes™ Program are available but will rely on the support and commitment of volunteers and family members. Programs will be offered based on young athlete participation, available facilities, and volunteer local program coaches.   

Volunteer and Family support is needed in the following areas:

• Area Coaches to facilitate Young Athletes™ program activities (read the YAP Coach Job Description for details; a Class A Volunteer form is required for this role)
• Research & identify area facilities to hold Young Athletes Activity Sessions
• Recruit Young Athletes and Families to participate
• Identify methods of financial sustainability and fundraising opportunities

If you are a volunteer or family member interested in starting a Young Athletes™ Program in your area please contact Mandi DeWitt, Young Athletes™ Program Manager via email or 720-359-3117.
 
For more information on how to get your child involved in a Young Athletes™ Program please contact the active Local Program Coordinators or Mandi DeWitt, Young Athletes™ Program Manager via email or 720-359-3117.
  
View all of the active and future YAP sites.

Additional YAP Resources:

• YAP Informational Pamphlet (also en espanol)
• YAP Activity Guide
• YAP Family Equipment Kit