Special Olympics Invitational Brings Many

The Utah State University Fieldhouse swarmed with athletes, coaches, spectators, referees, support staff and volunteers for the fall invitational of the Special Olympics on Nov. 16.

The athletes arrived at 8:30 a.m. for registration and then came the opening ceremonies. Abe Tanner, director of the Special Olympics and a junior majoring in public health, said the purpose of the opening ceremonies was to get the games started, unite the athletes and get into the spirit of the games. The opening ceremonies were conducted by Andy Dilley, a senior majoring in history. The USU Air Force ROTC presented the colors and the national anthem was sung by Catherine Evans.

Athletes of all disabilities, along with their team volunteers, participated in basketball and swimming events. The athletes earned medals and ribbons based on their performance.

"I think it's fantastic that the athletes get to go out and participate in events like this," said Sherrolyn Middleton, an assistant coach for the Hartningsen Salt Lake City basketball team. "Thirty or 40 years ago they would have stuck them in a closet. I'm glad that it doesn't happen anymore and I'm happy that volunteers like me get to participate in the games with the athletes this year."

Middleton said the invitational is a great opportunity for the athletes; they look forward to it all year.

Abby Bennett, a senior majoring in math education and a volunteer for the USU Aggie Special Olympics Team, participates with the athletes in basketball. A few years ago, a roommate asked her to help and now she really enjoys helping the athletes.

"This is my last year and I am going to miss helping so much," Bennett said. "It is volunteer work, but really we just have a great time as we work hard. My USU education would not be complete without the Special Olympics."

Bennett also advised everyone to try and participate in something as worthwhile as helping these athletes. She said it should remind us there is really so much more we can do for others and the rewards of helping are more than we could imagine.

Liz Leatham, a Special Olympic athlete for USU basketball, said she really likes participating with her teammates and everyone should join and get involved.

Another athlete from USU, Troy Anderson, said he enjoyed playing basketball because it is something he likes to do.

Freshman volunteer Kassie Skan, said the athletes are some of the most amazing people in the world.

"They don't handle everyday things like we do and they react totally differently, it is interesting to see that," Skan said.

She said participating in the Special Olympics is a great way to get involved and do some amazing volunteer work.

Joli Johnason, co-director of the Special Olympics and a junior majoring in education, said people with or without disabilities can benefit from the Special Olympics.

"The Special Olympics provides a chance to do something outside yourself and become a part of something different. It also shows the community that these athletes can benefit from an activity like this," she said.

Tanner said the Special Olympics fall invitational would not have been possible without the willingness of the volunteers and the employees.

"To see [the athletes] smile makes it all worth it," Tanner said.

He said the athletes have toiled long and trained so that they will be prepared to compete. Many of them have overcome enormous hurdles in their personal lives just to be here. These athletes have inspired us by their dedication and desire to become champions.

"For this reason, we have chosen the theme 'The Power of a Dream' for the power that accompanies our athletes' dreams is truly amazing," he said.

Tanner said he knew without USU clubs' and organizations' support and the support of the community, this wouldn't have been the success it was.

By Kassie Robison; kassrobison@cc.usu.edu
Photos by Scott Davis