Catoosa Special Olympians showcase their talents
The Catoosa County School District hosted their annual Special Olympics on Friday morning.
With the theme “Not All Super Heroes Wear Capes,” hundreds of Catoosa County natives were on hand at the Ringgold school facilities—the high school, middle school and elementary schools—supporting and gleefully cheering on 150 or so Catoosa County special needs’ students participating in the 100- and 50-meter dashes, the 100-meter walk, 25-meter adaptive walk, tennis ball and softball throws and jumping events.
Rain and wet field’s moved the events inside of school facilities, though.
Those in attendance indoors witnessed student volunteers and resident volunteers assisting the athletes in completing different activities. There were also volunteers decked out in super hero costumes and signature T-shirts, including Hulk, Captain America, Wonder Woman and Batman attire. Folks had the opportunity to dabble in some arts and crafts or in photo booths as well.
Special Olympics coordinator Amy Chambers said the spectacle exhibits a platform where special needs students can compete to the best of their ability.
‘It gives athletes a chance to compete with their peers,” Chambers said. “This gives them an even playing field with their own peers of athletic ability. This is a competition—not a fun day. It’s a competition that they are competing in and trying their best against people who are true competitors with them.”
Catoosa County special education department director Becky Conner said she enjoys every moment working with children with special needs.
“I’ve always been a part of the Special Olympics since I came to Catoosa County as a teacher,” Conner said. “I enjoy being with the students every day. In my job—as well as the Special Olympics—I get to see Special Olympics happen every day. I entered special education and work with the Special Olympics because I wanted the world a better place.”
As she watched her friends compete in Ringgold High School’s gymnasium, sophomore volunteer Riley Kelley said she was proud of the competitors giving it their all in these competitions.
“I think it’s great for them,” Kelley said. “The day is centered around them; they are the star.”
Sophomore volunteer Chloe Wilson said it was imperative to have the Special Olympics.
“This is their day; it’s all about them,” Wilson said. “Sometimes I feel like in a normal school setting, they don’t get enough attention that they would need. This just gives them their time to shine.”
First-time volunteer Hunter Ricketts said it’s about the smile the Special Olympics brings to each competitor’s face.
“It means a lot; I love just seeing the smile on their face,” Ricketts said. “This just brings everyone together here. It’s a good thing. This is crucial. My cousin is actually in here right now doing it. I help a lot. It’s just something you have to work with. And it’s fun, because it ends up helping him. It’s a good thing.”