Special Olympics Washington is excited to share an important update about the future of our sports programming. After a full year of evaluation, listening sessions, and feedback collection, we will return to a four season sports model beginning with the Winter 2026 season.

Over the past year we examined how the shift to a three season structure affected athletes, coaches, families, volunteers, and Local Programs. While the three season model offered several positive elements, including longer training opportunities and more local play, it also presented challenges that made participation more difficult for many community members. Your feedback made it clear that bringing back four seasons is the strongest long term option for our state.

This return to a four season schedule reflects our commitment to meaningful, athlete centered programming. It allows us to create smoother training cycles, more consistent competition timelines, and a balanced year of sports offerings. We are proud to build a structure that supports long term growth and improves access and opportunity for athletes across Washington.

What’s Changing?

Starting in Winter 2026, sports will again be organized into Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall seasons.

Local and recreational sports for Spring, Summer, and Fall are still being finalized and will be shared in early 2026. A full season calendar, featuring key deadlines, competition timelines, and State Games dates, will also be available at the start of the year.

Below is an overview of the 2026 sport structure and offerings:

WINTER SEASON

     Mid-November – Early March

     Sports: Basketball, Competitive Cheer

     Local Offerings: Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Speed Skating, Snowboarding, Swimming, Sideline Cheer

     State Games: February 27 – March 1

 

SPRING SEASON

     Mid-March – Late May

     Sports: Athletics (Track & Field), Soccer, Swimming

     Local Offerings: To be announced

     State Games: May 29–31

 

SUMMER SEASON

     Mid-June – Mid-August

     Sports: Bocce, Golf, Softball

     Local Offerings: To be announced

     Competition Period: August 8 – 16

 

FALL SEASON

     Mid-August – Mid-November

     Sports: Bowling, Flag Football

     Local Offerings: Gymnastics, Volleyball, Pickleball, Powerlifting, Sideline Cheer

     Competition Period: October 10 – November 15

We look forward to sharing more details soon and to providing Local Programs with the resources and clarity they need for a successful 2026. Thank you for your commitment to athletes, your continued partnership, and the time you invest in creating safe and inclusive opportunities in every region of our state. We are excited for what this change will mean for the future of Special Olympics Washington and for the continued growth of our community.