Zack Butler Sports Ability Games & Special Olympics

The Zack Butler Sports Ability Games celebrate the incredible abilities, determination, and team spirit of our Santa Rosa County students with special needs. Hosted by the Santa Rosa Education Foundation in partnership with Special Olympics Florida, these games provide students an inclusive, joy-filled day of athletic events designed to encourage participation, confidence, and connection.

The inaugural Games were held at Gulf Breeze High School, bringing together student-athletes, volunteers, and community supporters for an unforgettable day of inspiration and celebration. Since the inaugural Zack Butler Sports Ability Games in 2023, the Santa Rosa Education Foundation has proudly expanded this special event to serve students on both ends of Santa Rosa County. In 2025, we brought the Games to the north end of our district, with Pace High School serving as our host.

The inaugural North End Zack Butler Sports Ability Games welcomed more than 300 students and 200 community volunteers, along with teachers, school staff, and community partners, for a day filled with excitement, encouragement, and celebration.

The Games provide students with disabilities the opportunity to participate in a variety of adaptive sports and recreational activities in a supportive, inclusive environment. More than just a day of friendly competition, the event celebrates each student’s abilities, builds confidence, encourages teamwork, and creates meaningful connections among students, educators, and community members.

Through the continued growth of the Zack Butler Sports Ability Games, the Santa Rosa Education Foundation is proud to help ensure that more students across our district have the opportunity to experience the joy of participation, the encouragement of their community, and the celebration of their individual achievements.