Soccer is probably the world's most popular sport for children and adults around the world. Similarly, it is one of the most popular sports for Special Olympics athletes. At the 1995 World Games in New Haven, Connecticut, USA, more than 100 athletes from 67 countries participated in football competition. in all, it is estimated that over 150,000 athletes compete in Special Olympics football competition worldwide. Playing football requires very little equipment. Because it is easy to learn, football is appropriate for made range of age and ability levels. Athletes who participate in football are able to improve their overall physical fitness through training and competition. Because it is a team sport, athletes learn first hand the benefits of playing as a team. This promotes communication, camaraderie and friendships.  Special Olympics football is offered in 130 nations around the world. Additionally, every state in the U.S. offers individual skills, 5-a-side team, 11-a-side team, and Unified Sports competition.

Events

      0 1 1-a-side Team Competition
      * 5-a-side Team Competition (outdoor)
      * Futsal Competition (according to FIFA rules)
      0 Unified sports football (Soccer)
      The following event provides meaningful competition for athletes with lower ability:
      0 Individual Skills Contest (Dribbling, Shooting, and Run and Kick)