ORLANDO, Fla. — Isabella Valle cried in joy last summer when she learned she’d earned a spot at the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games, being held in Orlando. But with opening ceremonies less than a month away, the 25-year-old golfer’s tears are now out of frustration and disappointment.
Her mother, Elaine Valle, received an April 22 email from Special Olympics International saying that COVID-19 vaccination is mandatory for all athletes. Because Valle has not provided proof of being vaccinated, the email states that her daughter cannot be part of the team and cannot compete in the games.
That could run afoul of the Florida law passed last year banning such mandates. It’s also counter to the policy of both Special Olympics Florida, the state governing body, and the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games local organizing committee, which is recommending but not requiring COVID-19 vaccines.
