Friendlies

Clubs are encouraged to plan low-key competition opportunities with other clubs. This may be a shared practice session, scrimmage, or mixed-team pick-up. Such events allow athletes who have never attended a Special Olympics event to gain experience in travel and the competition format.

• Allows the competition experience for clubs with fewer athletes, a longer season and / or fewer competition opportunities
  
• Planned with other clubs in the area
  
• Takes the form of a shared practice or scrimmage
  
• Coaches can have their athletes simulate competition
  
• This format may assist with seeding teams for competition
  
• Athletes apply the skills they’ve learned through training
  
• Athletes from the participating clubs gain travel experience and learn competition etiquette
  
• Safety for players remains a priority but venue standards may be relaxed and officials are not required