2025 was a year where Special Olympics Virginia showed up across the Commonwealth and beyond. From advocacy and competition to leadership and community engagement, athletes, volunteers, partners, and law enforcement continued to move the mission forward in tangible ways.
In 2025, athletes competed, raised critical funds, and represented Special Olympics Virginia at the local, national, and global levels. The stories below reflect the moments that defined the year by demonstrating sustained impact and consistent opportunity for people with intellectual disabilities.
Advocating for Inclusion on Capitol Hill
Special Olympics Virginia Delegates Advocate for Inclusion and Critical Funding on Capitol Hill
We began the year in Washington, D.C., with Special Olympics Virginia athletes, families, and staff meeting directly with lawmakers to advocate for inclusion and critical funding. These conversations ensured athlete voices were part of policy decisions that affect sports, health, and leadership opportunities statewide.
Record-Breaking Polar Plunge
The 2025 Polar Plunge became the largest in Special Olympics Virginia history, raising millions of dollars to support athletes across the Commonwealth. Thousands of plungers, teams, and partners proved that cold weather does not slow down commitment. Registration is already open for the next Polar Plunge season.
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Sign up for the next Polar Plunge
Basketball Championships
Athletes from across Virginia took the court for the 2025 Basketball Championships, competing over a full weekend of high-energy play and team celebration. The event brought together hundreds of athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers in one of the state’s largest annual competitions.
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Daniel King Brings Home Medals at 2025 Special Olympics World Games
Daniel King at the World Games
Daniel King represented Virginia and Team USA at the 2025 Special Olympics World Games in Italy, returning home with multiple medals. His performance placed him on a global stage and reflected the depth of talent within Special Olympics Virginia.
Athlete Spotlight: Carol Rivers
Carol Rivers continues to redefine what long-term athlete involvement looks like in Special Olympics Virginia. Her story highlights decades of competition, leadership, and consistent presence at events across the state.
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Honoring Roy Zeidman
Celebrating the Career and Legacy of Roy Zeidman
2025 also marked the retirement of Roy Zeidman, whose career shaped programs, partnerships, and opportunities for countless athletes. His legacy is embedded across Special Olympics Virginia and will continue to influence the organization for years to come.
Summer Games
The 2025 Summer Games brought together thousands of athletes, coaches, volunteers, and fans for multiple days of competition and celebration. From Opening Ceremony to final medals, the Games once again served as a statewide focal point for the movement.
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Law Enforcement Torch Run
More than 1,300 law enforcement officers carried the Flame of Hope across Virginia in support of Special Olympics athletes. Their efforts raised critical funds and reinforced a partnership that remains one of the strongest in the organization.
Five Virginia Schools Earn 2025 National Banner Recognition
National Banner Schools
Five Virginia schools earned National Banner recognition in 2025, placing them among a select group nationwide. The designation reflects sustained commitment to inclusion through Unified sports, youth leadership, and school-wide engagement.
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Athlete Leadership: Nathon Horton
Nathon Horton’s appointment as an athlete representative on the Special Olympics Virginia Board highlighted the continued growth of athlete leadership. His role reinforces that athletes are not just participants, but decision-makers shaping the future of the organization.
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