What are the World Games?
The 2027 Special Olympics World Games are heading to Santiago, Chile, from October 16–24, 2027. Athletes from around the world will compete across 22 Olympic-style team and individual sports. The Games celebrate acceptance and inclusion through sport, and put a spotlight on the athleticism and ability of people with intellectual disabilities, along with the work Special Olympics does year-round in sport, education, health and community building.
One Open Roster Spot
Rhode Island has one available spot on Special Olympics USA, reserved for a female swimmer. If you are or know of an athlete who meets this criteria, keep reading.
To be considered, applicants must:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Be female
- Have a valid passport, or be able to obtain one
- Be a current SORI registered athlete, and remain an active participant through the conclusion of the 2027 World Games
- Have current medical and release forms on file
- Have competed in swimming during the qualifying period of January 2026–June 2026
- Have participated in swimming for a minimum of two years
- Have earned a gold, silver, or bronze medal in swimming at the 2026 Special Olympics Rhode Island Summer Games
- Demonstrate strong sportsmanship and follow the SORI Athlete Code of Conduct
- Be able to tolerate a 7+ hour non-stop travel day (primarily air travel) independently or with minimal supervision
- Be able to independently manage personal hygiene needs, including toileting and showering
- Be able to share living accommodations with teammates
- Have reliable transportation to and from all practices, competitions, meetings, and promotional events
- Meet the swimming performance standards below
Athletes selected for Special Olympics USA must commit to:
- Serving from August 2026 (upon selection) through November 2027, including post-Games evaluation
- Attending all required trainings as determined by the coaching staff
- Participating in Mandatory Team Trials, September 17–20, 2026, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Traveling with the Special Olympics USA delegation to the Host Town Program and the 2027 World Games (October 16–24, 2027), plus additional travel days before and after
- Remaining with the delegation for the entire duration of all Games-related activities
- Participating in regular virtual meetings and calls with coaches
- Attending SORI promotional events related to the World Games
Applications are due July 13, 2027. Late applications will not be accepted.
The swimmer will be selected at random from the eligible pool, and notified by July 15 if chosen.
Special Olympics Rhode Island covers all expenses for the athlete selected to represent Special Olympics USA. Athletes who’ve competed at USA or World Games before are welcome to apply, though the process weighs greater priority toward athletes who haven’t had that opportunity yet.
Take the next step in your Special Olympics journey and apply to represent Rhode Island and Special Olympics USA at the 2027 World Games.
Santiago is waiting. Are you ready?
One Rhode Island swimmer will earn the honor of competing on the world stage. Questions about eligibility or the application? Reach out to Rick LaBreche: rick@specialolympicsri.org.