There are more than 3.1 million athletes of all ages involved in Special Olympics worldwide. The life of a Special Olympics athlete is all about having fun, developing skills and building self-esteem, while participating in year-round sports training and competition. No matter their age or skill level, with 30 sports to chose from, Special Olympics has something for everyone with a disability. There are several programs for young athletes in which volunteers introduce the children to the world of sports, in preparation for the Special Olympics. These programs build fitness, motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and social skills. This boost in confidence for young athletes makes it easier for them to interact with other children, whether or not they have intellectual disabilities. Though ability levels vary, all are welcome to come and build character traits beneficial on and off the field of competition.
	“I was once very shy and not willing to talk with others. Special Olympics changed my life and my love of sports and helped me achieve all this unimaginable success.” XU Chuang, Special Olympics China Athlete and International Global Messenger.