Chances are that you know someone in your life that has a different set of abilities than you do. That does not make this person any less of an athlete than you are; in fact, many of the best athletes in the world today have disabilities, ranging from intellectual delays to physical impairments and many conditions that combine the two. Sports and fitness are for people of all abilities, shapes and sizes, and the Seattle Sounders are setting out to prove it this month.

The men of the Sounders are teaming up with Microsoft and the Special Olympics for a special event called Upgrade Your Game. Occurring on March 26, its purpose is to promote acceptance as well as respect for all athletes, no matter their abilities. The event is not one to be missed! It will be held at Memorial Stadium in Seattle and feature all kinds of fun activities, including football, soccer and cheerleading exercises. The best part is that these exercises will be led by the Sounders players as well as alumni and Special Olympic coaches. Together all of the people leading the activities will be promoting health, fun and respect throughout the day. Some other goals they will be working on include understanding, friendship and achieving each individual’s personal best.

The event will take place from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Athletes can be cheered on by any family and friends who wish to attend, and spectator tickets are only $6.27. It’s for a wonderful cause as well as a good time! There will also be food and beverages available to purchase. Anyone of any age can participate, and people both with and without intellectual disabilities are encouraged to come enjoy the event and try out some of the activities.

Unified Sports, one of the programs that the Special Olympics facilitates, will be receiving some of the proceeds, as will other Special Olympic programs. There will be limited tickets at the door so be sure to register online for guaranteed seats. Tickets start at $6.27, with participant tickets running for $27.37. The latter tickets also include a t-shirt and ball to take home to commemorate the event. Can’t make the event? You can also choose the donation option to just give a donation of your choice instead of participating. The sale of all three options ends March 26 so get your tickets or your donations in soon!

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia