SPORTS & FITNESS

In order to participate in Special Olympics competitions with the San Antonio Storm athletes must complete the Special Olympics Medical Waiver. This waiver must be filled out by the guardian or adult athlete and signed by a medical doctor, approving their ability to safely compete. The waiver can be found here - Athletes do not need a medical waiver to practice sports or participate in short "seasons" for sports. They will only need a physical if they want to participate in Special Olympics.  Presently, we are not preparing for any Special Olympics events. 

SPORTS WITH THE STORM ARE FOR EVERYONE REGAURDLESS OF ABILITY LEVEL, SPECIFIC NEEDS, OR DISABILITY

Athletes playing with the Storm range from the very talented to the very "social". This means there is a place for all abilities and motivation levels. We have members (on the spectrum or otherwise), who participate in a very "peripheral" manner, staying on the outside of the commotion and self-regulating themselves based on their tolerance of the setting.  Sometimes just standing near their friends or adjacent to an activity is enough excitement or stimulation. We will always encourage participation but also respect the wishes of an adult who is expressing they don't want to do something. All members are encouraged to try any activity that interests them, even if they are not exceptionally talented or haven't tried it before. 

All Storm athletic training starts at the most fundamental level with an emphasis on physical health and social development and all athletes are welcome to all sports.  If a member misses Tennis on Friday because they "don't like the heat", they have also missed that opportunity to socialize, to exercise,  and to contribute to their team. They are adults, it is absolutely their choice, but being busy (not bored or alone), keeping a normal sleep schedule, and remaining physically healthy is frequently a recipe for a good quality of life for adults with IDD. 

For athletes with physical restrictions or more comprehensive behavioral needs there are aligned events for ever sport so that they too can compete. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns about your athlete's ability to participate.