Special Olympics Oath

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Athlete’s Oath

The Special Olympics oath is:

“Letme win. But if I cannot win, let be brave in the attempt.”

These words were spoken by Roman gladiators as they entered the arena, facing the greatest battle of their lives. Our athletes recite the oath at the Opening Ceremonies of each competition to remind everyone, themselves included, that they are part of a brave tradition and that the goal is to compete with their whole effort and to exhibit bravery by pushing themselves to ever greater heights.

Remind your athletes regularly that theymust live by this oath if they are to grow and achieve all their goals.

Coach’s Oath

“In the name of all coaches, we shall follow written and verbal instructions of Special Olympics officials at all times, have our athletes at the appropriate events and activities at the proper time and abide by the rules and policies, in the spirit of sportsmanship.”

Official’s Oath

“In the name of all judges and officials, I promise that we shall officiate in these Special Olympics Games with complete impartiality, respecting and abiding by the rules which govern them, in the spirit of sportsmanship.”