Last updated 12/2/2022

All individuals participating in Special Olympics New Jersey activities are strongly recommended and encouraged to be vaccinated, however it is not required for participation. In order to be considered vaccinated, individuals 5 years and older must receive a primary series of a COVID-19 vaccine in one of the following:

For persons 18 and older, a primary series consists of:

  • A 2-dose series of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 mRNA vaccine (preferred), or
  • A single-dose COVID-19 vaccine (Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine)

For children 5 years through 17 years of age, a primary series consists of 2 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.


Guiding Principles

    1. The health and safety of all members of the Special Olympics New Jersey community is paramount.
    2. Participation is completely optional, and we respect, understand and fully support anyone who is unable to or uncomfortable returning to practice.
    3. Anyone considered high risk (per the High Risk Waiver) must read the information on these pages.
    4. Guidance is based on current medical information and state guidelines at the time of publication and is subject to change as guidance evolves.

Health and Safety Guidelines

Protocols for reporting if someone tests positive with COVID-19, has signs or symptoms of COVID-19, or has been notified that they have been or may have been exposed to COVID-19

  • It is recommended that any individual complete the Coronavirus-self checker test. The link can be found here: Coronavirus Self-Checker
  • Once completing the coronavirus self-checker, the individual should notify their program coordinator, coach or those who may have been exposed to make them aware.
  • Please below other recommendations and factors to consider prior to returning to activities after COVID-19:
    • See your physician and discuss a return to activity plan.
    • Isolate for five days (day 0 = positive test or onset of symptoms).
    • If no symptoms or symptoms are resolving after five days, isolation may end.
    • Continue to wear a well-fitting mask around others for five additional days (total of 10 days).
    • If there is a fever and/or productive cough continue to isolate until these symptoms resolve.
    • If there is chest pain/tightness and shortness of breath either at rest or upon return to exercise, seek out immediate medical care.
    • Generally, exercise can be started safely for those with asymptomatic/mild disease after 72 hours.

All participants are required to fill out the Communicable Diseases Waiver.

Communicable Diseases Waiver


COVID-19 Vaccine Information

In order to be considered vaccinated, individuals 5 years and older must receive a primary series of a COVID-19 vaccine in on of the following:

For persons 18 and older, a primary series consists of:

  • A 2-dose series of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 mRNA vaccine (preferred), or
  • A single-dose COVID-19 vaccine (Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine)

For children 5 years through 17 years of age, a primary series consists of 2 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

Submitting proof of vaccination:

Proof of vaccination is not a requirement for participation. However, we will continue to collect proof of vaccination in the event we need to adjust our current guidelines. A copy of the CDC vaccination card may be sent directly to SONJ via the online link. You may also take screen shots of the approved app “Docket” and send via the online link below. The screen shots must include the name of the athlete and date(s) of vaccination.

In a continual effort to provide the latest information, SONJ will provide links to answer some of the questions you may have regarding the vaccines. COVID-19 vaccines are highly recommended for athletes, Unified partners, volunteers, and staff, and MAY be required for some activities and/or venues. All decisions should be made individually with the advice of your family and your physician.  The information below has been compiled from Federal, State and local agencies, and organizations that support individuals with intellectual disabilities.

COVID-19 Vaccine Form & FAQs


Special Olympics New Jersey’s (SONJ) goal is to make informed decisions in the best interest of all participants. SONJ will continue to evaluate the Return to Activity guidelines as currently constructed and provide updates with more details when they are necessary. All decisions are made with the safety of all participants at the forefront. As such, all safety measures and protocols are being created following the recommendations of Special Olympics Inc., the Center for Disease Control (CDC), and the State of New Jersey. These safety measures and protocols will be monitored and implemented as needed throughout the season. SONJ reserves the right to change COVID-19 protocols as needed.