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ATHLETE ELIGIBILITY:
In order to participate with Special Olympics Saskatchewan, an athlete must meet the following criteria:
a) AGE REQUIREMENT:
The minimum age for participation in Special Olympics competition is 8
years. No child may participate in a Special Olympics competition (or
be awarded medals or ribbons associated with competition), before his
or her 8th birthday.
b) 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 sub-average
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)
- "Sub-average intellectual functioning" refers to IQ levels of approximately 70 and below.
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 age peers 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.
Special Olympics was created and developed to give individuals with
intellectual disabilities the opportunity to train and compete in sport
activities. No person shall, on the grounds of gender, race, religion,
colour or national origin, be excluded from participation in or be
denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination
under any program or activity of Special Olympics. Zone/Community
Program Volunteers maintain the right to restrict or deny athlete
participation when the safety of volunteers and athletes are deemed to
be in jeopardy.
Flexibility is left to the Community,
Zone, Chapter and National Special Olympics organizations for
determining the eligibility of the participants because of the variety
of situations and needs that exist in the many localities where Special
Olympics programs have been and will be instituted. Inclusion is
preferred to exclusion when eligibility is in question.
Individuals who have both an intellectual disability and multiple
disabilities may participate in Special Olympics programs and
competitions.
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”.
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