For decades, Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ) has been more than just an athletic program—it has been a movement of inclusion, empowerment, and community. With thousands of athletes, coaches, families, and volunteers participating across the state, SONJ continues to grow and adapt, ensuring that every season reflects both athlete needs and the ever-changing sports landscape.
As the 2025–2026 season approaches, SONJ has announced a series of updates, from new digital registration tools and program changes to the introduction of brand-new sports. Alongside these developments, the season will also feature a packed calendar of fundraising events and competitions that showcase the passion and dedication of athletes throughout New Jersey.
Explore more updates on statewide programs like this in our Special Olympics New Jersey section.
Streamlined Digital Registration
One of the most impactful changes this year is the move to all-digital registration. Athletes and volunteers must now register online through SONJ’s new system, designed to simplify participation and ensure smoother coordination for events statewide. This shift is expected to improve efficiency and make it easier for families and volunteers to stay engaged throughout the season.
Winter Sports Program Updates
SONJ has made adjustments to its winter offerings in response to changing conditions and long-term program planning:
- Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing Removed
Inconsistent winter weather in New Jersey has made it increasingly difficult to support cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. These sports have been officially removed from the program. - Speed Skating Continues for One More Year
Speed skating will remain available for this season, with its final competition hosted at a central New Jersey rink. This will give athletes one last opportunity to compete before the sport’s retirement. - Basketball and Bowling Policy Shift
Athletes must now choose between basketball or bowling during the winter/spring season, ensuring that scheduling and participation remain manageable. - Basketball Advancement Rules Tightened
Only gold medal teams at regional competitions will advance to the Spring Games. In cases where spots are available, silver medal teams may advance through a random draw system.
New Sports on the Horizon
SONJ is also expanding its athletic offerings, giving athletes new ways to showcase their skills and foster camaraderie:
- Cornhole (Two-Year Exhibition)
Cornhole will be introduced during the winter season as a two-year exhibition sport. This trial phase will determine if cornhole becomes a permanent fixture in future seasons. - Cycling Expansion
A new 250M road race will be added to the cycling program beginning in Fall 2025, broadening opportunities for cyclists of varying skill levels. - Baseball in Development
Baseball has received conditional approval as a new sport, further expanding SONJ’s already diverse athletic lineup.
2025 Camp Shriver Recap
The 2025 Camp Shriver season was a tremendous success, offering inclusive sports and recreational opportunities across multiple New Jersey locations. Highlights included:
- A program for young athletes ages 2–7 at the SONJ Sports Complex, building confidence and introducing foundational skills.
- A twilight session at the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams, allowing athletes to train and connect in a unique community setting.
Camp Shriver continues to serve as a powerful entry point for young athletes and families, reinforcing SONJ’s mission of inclusion from the earliest stages.
Volunteer Opportunities
SONJ thrives on the generosity and dedication of its volunteers. This season, there are opportunities to support over 15 sports competitions and fundraising events throughout the fall. Volunteer registration is open and can now be completed online, making it easier than ever to get involved. Whether you’re a coach, event assistant, or supporter, volunteering with SONJ provides an unforgettable experience.
Upcoming Events and Fundraisers
NJ Turnpike 5K Race
- September 27, 2025 | Exit 15X Helix, Secaucus
Participants will have the rare opportunity to run on the New Jersey Turnpike in this one-of-a-kind fundraising event.
Plane Pull Fundraiser
- October 4, 2025 | Newark Liberty International Airport
Teams of 20 will test their strength by attempting to pull a United Airlines Boeing 737 a distance of 12 feet—all to raise funds for SONJ athletes.
Fall Golf Tournaments
- Garden State Unified Golf Classic – Sept. 22, 2025, at Tavistock Country Club, benefiting Unified Sports programs.
- NJ Law Enforcement Golf Classic – Sept. 22, 2025, at Pebble Creek Golf Club in Colts Neck, highlighting the long-standing partnership between law enforcement and SONJ.
- PIANJ Golf Classic – Sept. 29, 2025, hosted by the Professional Insurance Agents of New Jersey, bringing business leaders together in support of the cause.
The Impact of SONJ
Special Olympics New Jersey isn’t just about sports—it’s about fostering confidence, friendships, inclusion, and achievement for thousands of athletes across the Garden State. From competitive play to community fundraisers, every event reflects the organization’s core values of determination and respect.
As the 2025–2026 season begins, the new sports, digital systems, and events demonstrate SONJ’s commitment to evolving with the times while never losing sight of its mission: to provide life-changing opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
How to Get Involved
Families, supporters, and volunteers are encouraged to register online, attend fundraising events, or simply show up to cheer on SONJ athletes. Every action contributes to a stronger, more inclusive community.
Don Lichterman has TWO (2) Gold Medals and a Silver Medal as a Coach for SONJ.
To learn more about upcoming events and programs, visit our Special Olympics New Jersey section.
