Northern Lights

Northern Lights Special Olympics Agency is committed to providing Special Olympics sports programming for our athletes on a year round basis.

Shining Abilities’ is committed to providing these sports at a low cost to our families. To ensure sustainability and continue offering quality programming we require that a parent or guardian stay during practice and volunteer when needed. The low fee helps to cover administration costs, equipment, facility rentals, and enables us to expand our sports offerings.

2025/2026 Northern Lights

Athletes will still need to meet the Special Olympics Illinois requirements for competition.
In order to compete at any Special Olympics tournament, the athlete must have an updated Medical Application filed with Special Olympics prior to the first practice of the sport they choose to compete in.
You are NOT required to compete at any competitions. Each sport we offer allows the athlete to choose if they want to be competitive or recreational.

Important Information:

A parent/guardian is required to remain on site during all sports practices and any tournaments. Shining Abilities staff and volunteers will not be responsible for the supervision of athletes.
It is mandatory that if you child will be competing at a Special Olympic Tournament, one parent/guardian must becomes a Special Olympics Class A Coach to ensure we have enough volunteers to help at practices and at tournaments.
Family members will be asked and expected to help assist at practices as needed.
You are required to take part in fundraising opportunities offered throughout the year. As a non-profit, Shining Abilities relies on fundraising to support programs like Northern Lights.
If you have financial concerns, please reach out to Jenny or Jessy about different options.

2025/2026 Northern Lights Sports Handbook

Please click on the handbook below, all athletes must have a signed acknowledgement form on file.