Among the 80 Special Olympics athletes who showcased their talents at the FIBA Open in Mies was Olivier Paccaud from Montreux. Olivier is 24 years old and has been playing Basketball with Special Olympics for over six years. He has found his niche with 3×3. “I like 5×5 Basketball, but I prefer 3×3. I feel right at home with this format,” says Olivier. His passion for this sport is so great that he founded his own team for players with disabilities, called Atypique 3×3. For Olivier, Special Olympics’ participation in the FIBA Open conveys an essential message: “It is important that athletes with disabilities are recognized as athletes, and I believe that the connection with FIBA helps achieve this recognition.” Olivier has been a member of the Athletes’ Committee of Special Olympics Switzerland for four years, where he plays a valuable role in shaping the direction of Special Olympics in Switzerland.
Image rights: Christopher Andres, FIBA Open 2024
