Award nominations are open to all persons and programs associated with Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ) who have made distinguished contributions.
Nominations are due by September 5. They will then be reviewed by a committee in the Fall for our annual Special Olympics New Jersey Night of Champions held in November.
Award Descriptions
click title to expand
For Special Olympics New Jersey athletes – one from each of the 13 Areas – who have shown determination and dedication to training and an increased proficiency in any sport at any competition level. Each Area Committee will be responsible for choosing one athlete from its respective Area to be recognized at the Awards Dinner. All Outstanding Athlete nominations will be sent to the respective Area Director(s).
For an individual with at least 10 years of involvement with Special Olympics New Jersey who has advanced the Special Olympics movement in one of the categories of sports and training, fundraising, or public awareness.
For an individual with at least 15 years of involvement with the Special Olympics movement who has demonstrated a lifetime of commitment and compassion to the athletes of Special Olympics New Jersey.
For the program that has shown the best example of high-quality sports training for Special Olympics New Jersey athletes.
For the family of a Special Olympics New Jersey athlete that has demonstrated unique and outstanding support of the Special Olympics movement and athletes.
For an individual coach in any Special Olympics New Jersey sport who has demonstrated a high degree of technical skill and personal commitment to preparing athletes for participation in Special Olympics New Jersey events.
For exemplary voluntary service by an individual sports official at Special Olympics New Jersey state competitions and events.
For exemplary voluntary service by an individual to Special Olympics New Jersey at state competitions and events.
For exemplary voluntary service by an individual to Special Olympics New Jersey at area competitions and events.
For exemplary voluntary service by a group to Special Olympics New Jersey.
For a school that has demonstrated a superior commitment to inclusion, acceptance, respect and dignity for all by integrating Special Olympics New Jersey Initiatives into their school programs and culture, and embracing the motto, “Play Unified. Live Unified.”
For individuals who have advanced the mission of Special Olympics New Jersey through year-round support and innovation.
For a Special Olympics New Jersey athlete who has demonstrated a dedication to sportsmanship and success in the community.
For a Special Olympics New Jersey athlete who has demonstrated dedication to sport through a commitment to training. Please include how the scholarship can be used to advance or continue the athlete’s training or education.