The Oneida Daily Dispatch (Oneida, NY)
OLYMPIANS UNITE
Canastota: Hundreds of local students participate in 2016 Autumn Games
CANASTOTA >> Christen Tobiasson’s sister makes sure everyone’s aware of his accomplishments.
The 10-year-old BOCES student said his sister hangs his ribbons from the Special Olympics up on the walls at home, and he was set to bring her more on Wednesday after taking part in the 2016 Autumn Games at Canastota High School.
“It’s the best thing that’s happened since last year; it’s fun to be here,” he said.
Withmore than 300 students from area schools participating, Christen said it was “a little crowded, but I can handle it.” He took part in the 100 meter dash and softball, which played to his interests.
“I love to throw and hit stuff,” he said. “And I like to run.”
Joe Titus, 14, another BOCES student, was also pumped up for the games. He took part in the running long jump, and like Christen, he said he loves to run - as well as play football.
“It’s fun because you get to race against other people,” he said.
“Every year keeps getting better and better,” said Canastota athletic director Andy Pino. “It’s nice to see the smiles on the faces of everyone.”
Pino has been involved with the Special Olympics for 35 years, and said the school has hosted the event for at least 15 years.
“I think the kids really develop a sense of caring and loving and so on,” he said, noting how those participating and their peers come together for the event. “But on the other hand, community service is part of be- ing in the community, which I feel is so vital.”
“The games are about more than sports,” said Canastota superintendent June Clarke. “Student athletes of all abilities deserve to learn skills.”
This is the sixth year the games have been held during the fall. In previous years, the event was held during the spring, but scheduling it around tests became too difficult, said BOCES liaison Laurie Ann Ross. In the end, it worked out well, though, because now the students get to enjoy the outdoors in autumn.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re little or old, we all look forward to
this day,” she said.
“It’s fun and challenging and I like competing with the other kids,” said Malachi Ruggiero, 10, of Canastota.
“It’s fun,” said Giddeon Sorbello, 10, also of Canastota. “You can make more friends and get along with each other. It doesn’t matter what place you come in.”
Having fun and pushing themselves to do their best was on display the entire morning, as student athletes took part in an assortment of sports, including the 40 and 200 meter dash, shot put, the running and standing long jump, softball throw and more. Olympians also took part in adaptive games, including bowling and wheelchair racing. Regardless of ability, it was a chance for the students to show off their skills, some of which others might not get to see on a regular basis, Ross said.
“They’re proud of themselves,” she said. “This is the showcase where they can show the world what they can do.”
“I think it’s great for all the kids to come to this,” said Erica French Conover, whose daughter Bailey took part in the games.
“Maybe they’re limited in terms of physical ability, but this brings out the best in them,” Pino said. “You’re trying to bring out the best in yourself. You’re trying to test yourself. They’re all athletes.”
That sentiment is ref lected in the Special Olympics motto. “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” And it was one echoed by the athletes themselves.
“You got this, you can do this,” Titus said.
“Don’t be upset what place you come in,” Giddeon said. “All that matters is you have fun.”