FAQ's
What is our team name?
Leander Lazers
Who is eligible to participate?
Must be at least 8 years old to compete, and be a student currently enrolled in Leander I.S.D. and attending a Leander I.S.D. campus.
Is identified as intellectually disabled (ID) and/or a closely related developmental disability
Possesses a level of self-help skills that allows the athlete to perform necessary skills in competition with little assistance from volunteers (Exception: ramp bowling)
Is medically stable so as not to be endangered in any way by various external conditions (noisy environments, large group settings, hot or cold weather conditions, long periods of wait time during training and competition)
Is able to work successfully with volunteers through training and competition (can follow directions, is not physically aggressive toward peers or volunteers, understands redirection, and can perform the necessary tasks in the training and competition format). See Athlete Code of Conduct.
How do I get my athlete registered to participate?
You must first complete a Special Olympics medical form for athlete’s participation in any practices or games. A medical doctor must complete a portion of this form. Medicals must be updated every three years to continue participation. Complete the Athlete Medical form located in the Forms tab of this website and return it to Ryan Gough prior to the medical deadline for that sport.
How do I receive information throughout the year?
Information is sent out through a general email list, and sport specific email lists. You will be included on that list when you have contacted Ryan Gough. Ryan.gough@leanderisd.org
What do the athletes wear for competition?
Athletes must purchase a team shirt which is used for all sports. Contact Ryan Gough or an Adapted Phys Ed Teacher for an order form. Jerseys are provided for basketball and soccer competition. Athletes must wear appropriate athletic shoes for all conditions.
Who are the coaches?
Most teams are coached by LISD teachers and staff who are certified through Special Olympics Texas. All Adapted PE Teachers are certified coaches. Some teams are coached by parents or volunteers who are certified through Special Olympics.
How can I get involved?
We welcome parent volunteers and coaches. Please visit the Special Olympics Texas website to complete the appropriate volunteer forms and to find out when coaching certification classes are scheduled. http://www.sotx.org/
How do i become a unified partner?
To become a Unified Partner you will have to complete the Class A Volunteer form, Class A Minor Volunteer Reference Form (if under 18), Unified partner form, and complete the general orientation.
What sports are offered and when are they offered?
Aquatics: Summer/Fall Sport. (For athletes in grades 7-12) Weekly practice. One area competition.
Bocce: Fall Sport/Singles and Doubles Competition. Weekly practice. One area competition.
Bowling: Fall Sport/ Individual and Team Competition. Weekly practice. One area competition. Parents may be responsible for a portion of weekly practice fee.
Powerlifting: Fall Sport/Individual competition. For athletes ages 16+. Must be able to lift the bench press bar - 45lbs. Athlete must have good behavior and follow directions to promote safety. Weekly practices. One area competition.
Basketball: Winter Sport/ Individual and Variety of Team Competitions. Weekly practice. Local Basketball Showcase. One area competition.
Track and Field: Spring Sport/Individual Competitions. Weekly practices. One area competition.
Tennis: Spring Sport/Individual Competition. Weekly practices. One area competition.
Soccer: Spring Sport/Individual and Team Competition. Weekly practices. Multiple scrimmages for teams. One area competition.
End of Season Celebration – Middle of May