Caring for the whole athlete is central to our mission and was on full display at the Special Olympics Wisconsin’s 2025 Summer Games at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. In addition to some incredible competition —we also hosted Healthy Athletes. Over the course of the weekend, 513 health screenings were provided for athletes in a fun, welcoming environment that removes the anxiety and fear individuals with intellectual disablities often experience when visiting the doctor or dentist. Healthy Athletes ensures that health and wellness remain a cornerstone of the Special Olympics Wisconsin experience.
This year’s Healthy Athletes highlights included:
Opening Eyes – 164 screenings
Made possible through a grant from the Lion’s Club International Foundation, more than 200 prescriptions were written, giving athletes access to both everyday eyewear and specialized sports goggles designed for active competition.
Fit Feet – 86 screenings
Athletes received foot and ankle evaluations, along with shoe and sock recommendations to help them stay active and injury-free.
Special Smiles – 137 screenings
Since 2002, Delta Dental of Wisconsin has been the exclusive statewide partner of the Special Olympics Special Smiles program. Athletes received oral health screenings, dental hygiene education, and referrals for follow-up care when needed.
Health Promotions – 126 screenings
Health Promotion events are focused on improving the quality and length of life for Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes by providing them with knowledge and tools to make better decisions about their health and well-being. Athletes learned about hydration, nutrition, sun safety, and overall wellness habits through engaging, interactive activities.
Paying it Forward!
The impact of Healthy Athletes goes beyond the numbers. A team of 12 Athlete Health Messengers decided to pay it forward by volunteering and played a key role in supporting the screenings and educating their peers about the importance of health. These athlete leaders helped create a fun, welcoming, and empowering atmosphere at each screening station and we thank them for their time and passion! Here are the Athlete Volunteers who donated their time and talent at Summer Games:
Fit Feet: Austin Hecker
Health Promotions: Sara Schumacher, Heather Hansen, Albert Helmich, and Lora Behr, Josh Vonckx, and Kolin Schmitz
Special Smiles: Danielle Miller and Theo Tarkowski
Sun Safety Squad: Heather Holland, Albert Helmich, Ike Walters, and Kyle Von Drasek
“Healthy Athletes is about removing barriers to care and giving athletes the tools and confidence they need to take charge of their health,” said Brittany Hoegh, Senior Director of Health Programs at Special Olympics Wisconsin. “To see so many athletes take advantage of these services and to be supported by fellow athletes as Health Messengers is incredibly inspiring. This is what inclusive health looks like in action.”
Special Olympics Wisconsin is proud to lead the charge in inclusive health and to make sure that athletes not only compete, but thrive, both on and off the field.
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