|
|
|
 |
In order to participate in Special Olympics BC, individuals must
meet the following requirements.
AGE REQUIREMENT
The minimum age for participation in Special Olympics
competition is 8 years. An accredited program may permit children
who are at least 6 years old to participate in age-appropriate
Special Olympics training programs offered by that accredited
program, or in specific (and age-appropriate) cultural or social
activities offered during the course of a Special Olympics event.
However, no child may participate in a Special Olympics competition
(or be awarded medals or ribbons associated with competition)
before his or her 8th birthday.
There is no maximum age limitation for participation in Special
Olympics.
DEGREE OF DISABILITY
Participant eligibility is based on the diagnostic definition
used by the AAMR (American Association on Mental Retardation):
"Mental Retardation refers to substantial limitations in present
functioning. It is characterized by significantly subaverage
intellectual functioning, existing concurrently with related
limitations in two or more of the following applicable adaptive
skill areas: communication, self-care, home living, social skills,
community use, self-direction, health and safety, functional
academics, leisure and work. Mental retardation manifests before
age 18.” * (Definition, Classification & Systems
of Supports, 9th Edition, AAMR, Washington, DC - '92, p. 5)
-
Subaverage intellectual functioning refers to IQ levels
of approximately 70 and below.
-
Adaptive behavior describes the degree with which
individuals meet the standards and social responsibilities expected
for a specific age and/or cultural group.
-
The developmental period is the period of time between
birth and the 18th birthday.
The following four assumptions are essential to the application
of the definition:
-
Valid assessment considers cultural and linguistic diversity, as
well as differences in communication and behavioural factors.
-
The existence of limitations in adaptive skills occurs within
the context of community environments typical of the individual's
peers of the same age and is indexed to the person's individualized
needs for support.
-
Specific adaptive limitations often coexist with strengths in
other adaptive skills or other personal capabilities.
-
With appropriate supporters over a sustained period, the life
functioning of the person with mental retardation will generally
improve.
Flexibility is left for the Local, Region/Zone, Chapter, and
National Special Olympics organizations to determine participant
eligibility because of the variety of situations and needs that
exist in the many localities of Special Olympics programs. When
eligibility is in question, inclusion is preferred to exclusion.
Note: The term "mental retardation" is a diagnostic term used to
describe the condition defined above. In keeping with the current
language practiced within the field, the term 'mental retardation'
is no longer commonly used. In its place, if it is
absolutely necessary to use a label, (i.e. in an educational
setting or in a SOC/NCCP Technical Program,) then the terms that
are in keeping with the current practices are “a person
with an intellectual disability”.
OBSERVANCE OF SOC SPORT RULES
To be eligible to participate in Special Olympics, all
participants must agree to observe and abide by the Special
Olympics Canada (SOC) Sports Rules.
Special Olympics BC is committed to providing
sports experiences to individuals regardless of race, religion, or
financial situation.
|
|
|
|
