Due to recent developments tied to the global spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), including a case tied to a U.S. Special Olympics athlete as well as confirmed cases in the state of Ohio, and the heightened risks for people with intellectual disabilities and the elderly, Special Olympics Ohio is suspending all sport training and competition activities and other activations involving our athletes (such as Athlete Leadership, Inclusive Health, and social activities) through 31 March 2020, at which time the situation will be reevaluated. This difficult decision was made with an abundance of caution and based on advice received from Special Olympics, Inc. after consultation with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and review of the latest guidance from the World Health Organization.
State and local fundraising events and other events that do not involve Special Olympics athletes may proceed as long as staff and/or local program organizers carefully assess the risk in collaboration with regional leadership.
Because our school partners primarily manage Unified events, we will work collaboratively with them to evaluate school-based Unified sports activities.
As this is a rapidly evolving situation, this guidance may be updated at any time. Staff and volunteers are asked and expected to utilize good judgment when determining if or how to proceed with activities as not all possible situations or scenarios can be anticipated or covered by this guidance. However, in no case are volunteers or staff permitted to proceed with activities or events otherwise prohibited by this guidance.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this constantly changing circumstance and strive to make the best decisions with the safety and well-being of our athletes and all constituents at the forefront.
Jessica Stewart
Chief Executive Officer
Helpful info:
Coronavirus Outbreak: What You Need to Know