Recognizing Excellence: Special Olympics Virginia Annual Awards
Each year, Special Olympics Virginia recognizes athletes, sponsors, coaches, and volunteers for their outstanding service and their contribution to the success of the mission of Special Olympics Virginia.
Award Categories
Athlete of the Year
Presented to an athlete who has shown determination and dedication to training and true sportsmanship during their participation in Special Olympics Virginia.
Area Volunteer of the Year
Presented to a volunteer for service given to carry out, improve, and promote the activities and the mission of Special Olympics Virginia at the local or area level.
Coach of the Year
This award can be nominated in one of three categories:
- Rising Star: Highlights a coach under the age of 25 who is early in their career and has already made significant contributions at the local level. This award focuses on coaches who have demonstrated a commitment to the organization while having the potential to make a large impact in the future.
- Outstanding Coach: Recognizes a coach who best demonstrates the true ideals of the coaching profession at a local program or USA Games or World Games team. This person leads by example and expects athletes to set and strive to reach goals. Selection is based on participation, contribution to sport and coaching, personal and professional coaching development, and coaching effectiveness and player development.
- Lifetime Achievement: Recognizes contributions over the whole of a career by a coach in Special Olympics Virginia. This award honors individuals who have made a significant contribution and have been coaching for over 20 years.
Family of the Year
Presented to the family who has made a unique and lasting contribution to Special Olympics Virginia to benefit the lives of Special Olympics Virginia athletes.
Winning Spirit Award
Presented to an athlete or volunteer who has affected the organization at multiple levels and has made an invaluable contribution to the lives of Special Olympics Virginia athletes.
Nominate a Deserving Individual or Family
Do you know an athlete, volunteer, coach, or family that deserves to be celebrated? Submit a nomination and help us recognize those who make Special Olympics Virginia such a special place.
Deadline for Nominations: April 2, 2025
Nomination Form
Thank you for supporting and celebrating the individuals who make Special Olympics Virginia thrive.