Not every athlete at Ski Ability NI is eligible for Special Olympics, and that’s completely okay — our club welcomes and supports all athletes, regardless of eligibility. But for those who are eligible and who show readiness and interest, the Special Olympics pathway can open exciting opportunities for growth, achievement and international competition.
Our role is to guide families through this process with clarity, honesty and full support.
Special Olympics has its own eligibility criteria, set internationally.
To be eligible, an athlete must have:
an intellectual disability OR
a closely related developmental condition that results in significant adaptive needs
This means some of our athletes are eligible, and some are not — but every athlete still receives the same high-quality coaching and support at Ski Ability NI.
If you’re unsure whether your athlete qualifies, our coaches and Welfare Officer can help you understand the criteria.
For families interested in the pathway, here is how it works:
Talk to the coaching team.
We will give you an honest and supportive overview of your athlete’s readiness.
We guide you through the Special Olympics registration process.
You won’t do this alone — we help you complete the forms, understand expectations and manage documentation.
Athletes join our Special Olympics training session (Session 1).
This is where eligible athletes progress into structured, technical training.
Skill development and assessment.
Coaches support steady technical, emotional and physical development.
Opportunities to compete.
Eligible athletes may be invited to:
Regional competitions
National Games
International events
Special Olympics World Winter Games
Progress is always athlete-led — never rushed.
The pathway can seem complex, especially for families new to skiing or new to Special Olympics.
We support you by providing:
step-by-step guidance
help with paperwork and registration
honest communication about athlete readiness
advice on development and progression
support during competitions and training
You never walk this journey alone.
There are many reasons, all completely valid:
They may not meet Special Olympics criteria
They may prefer recreational skiing
They may develop at their own pace
Families may not wish to pursue competition
They may enjoy skiing purely for fun and community
Every athlete’s journey is respected.
Every athlete belongs here.
meaningful goals
increased confidence and independence
the chance to represent Ulster or Ireland
opportunities for personal growth
powerful, life-changing experiences on and off the slope
It shows families what is possible.
It shows athletes what they are capable of.
It reflects the heart of Ski Ability NI:
We empower athletes to grow in their own way — at their own pace.