At the Raleigh Racers, our goal is to see every athlete compete. However, because our team is growing so fast, Special Olympics North Carolina (SONC) or the hosting county of an Invitational occasionally provides us with a “quota” (a limited number of athlete spots) for Regional and State competitions. The quota is usually derived from the maximum capacity of the facility.
To ensure the selection process is fair, transparent, and consistent, we use the following guidelines.
How are athletes chosen for Summer Games?
Selection is based on a “Weighted Criteria” system. We look at who chooses if they want to attend or not, followed by Attendance, then by Sportsmanship/Effort, and finally Team Needs (such as filling a relay spot).
Does my athlete’s attendance really matter?
Yes. Consistency is our number one metric. Attending practice not only ensures the athlete is safe and conditioned for competition, but it shows the commitment level required for travel events.
What happens if two athletes have the same attendance record?
In the event of a tie, the coaching staff looks at:
Effort & Decorum: Who is giving 100% and treating teammates with respect, as per the Athlete Code of Conduct?
Experience: Have they had the chance to go to a meet before, or is it time for a new athlete to get that experience?
Who makes the final decision?
Final rosters are determined by the Raleigh Racers Coaches and Head Coaches. While we handle situations on a case-by-case basis to ensure fairness, our goal is always to uphold the integrity of the team and the spirit of the Special Olympics.
Why did a “slower” swimmer get picked over a “faster” swimmer?
In Special Olympics, selection isn’t always about the fastest time—it’s about the athlete’s growth and readiness. We also prioritize team/group sports (like relays) to ensure that a whole group isn’t disqualified because one spot wasn’t filled.
What if an athlete wants to give their spot to another athlete?
We love the “Racer Spirit!” If an athlete is selected but feels another teammate deserves the opportunity more, they may voluntarily offer their spot to another eligible athlete on the roster.
Are there specific travel requirements?
Yes. For destination Invitationals and State Games, athletes must be “Travel Ready.” This means they can handle the sensory environment of a large meet, adapt to outdoor conditions if necessary, be prepared for very long days, and follow the safety instructions of the coaching staff during the trip.