Wenatchee Hosts 1,200 Athletes at Winter Games

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Special Olympics Washington Winter Games are coming to Wenatchee, with more than 1,200 participants and coaches from across the state competing in events like basketball and cheer. The organization is seeking volunteers to assist on the sidelines and help with scoring, as well as health professionals and students to provide free health screenings through the "Healthy Athletes" program.

Why it matters

The Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, promoting inclusion and empowerment. Volunteer support is crucial to the success of these events, which rely on community engagement.

The details

The Special Olympics Washington Winter Games will take place from Friday, February 27, to Sunday, March 1, in Wenatchee and East Wenatchee. Volunteers are needed to assist with basketball and cheer events, as well as to help with scoring. Health professionals and students, especially those specializing in podiatry and audiology, are also needed for the "Healthy Athletes" program, which offers free health screenings on Saturday, February 28.

• The Special Olympics Washington Winter Games will take place from Friday, February 27, to Sunday, March 1, 2026.
• The "Healthy Athletes" program, offering free health screenings, will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026.

What’s next

Individuals interested in volunteering for the Special Olympics Washington Winter Games can sign up on the organization's website at SpecialOlympicsWashington.org.