Winter Special Olympics Showcase Autism Student Skills
Winter Special Olympics Autism Students Compete in Basketball Skills
On January 10, basketballs bounced, athletes rotated through stations, and spectators gathered on the sidelines as athletes demonstrated their skills at the 2026 Special Olympics Illinois Region A Winter Games. Among them were six students from Northwest Center for Autism at High Road School, competing in the basketball skills event focused on passing, shooting, and dribbling.
“These experiences show students that they can try something unfamiliar and succeed,” said Kristen Jorgenson, program coordinator at NWCA. “They learn how to be part of a group, how to handle new environments, and how their preparation shows up when it matters.”
Preparation Builds Confidence for Winter Special Olympics Autism Students
Preparation for the Winter Special Olympics began weeks before. During physical education classes and scheduled practice time, students worked on the specific skills required for competition. Practices focused on repetition, accuracy, and consistency, including dribbling control, passing technique, and shooting from designated spots on the court. Students also practiced event routines so they understood what to expect on competition day.
Training Translates Into Strong Competition Results
That training translated into strong performances. Evan from Room 6 and Jarret from Room 12 each placed third in their divisions. Nick from Room 4 and Hunter from Room 5 earned second-place finishes. Brody from Room 5 and Johnnie from Room 8 placed first and qualified for the State competition.
“Training goes beyond learning the sport,” said Jorgenson. “We practice the skills, but we’re also helping students see that they are capable of doing the same things as their peers. That confidence carries into everything else they do.”
Competition Environment Supports Autism Student Athletes
The event gave students the opportunity to perform in a structured competitive setting with spectators present. They followed event expectations, completed each task independently, and remained focused throughout the competition.
“Most of the students didn’t show much nervousness on competition day,” Jorgenson said. “One student mentioned feeling a little nervous with so many family members watching, but with support from staff and the use of fidgets, he worked through it.”
Continuing Special Olympics Opportunities
NWCA students will continue participating in Special Olympics events this spring.
Great work, athletes!
