Athletic events are a place where students of all ages, personalities and backgrounds can come together and participate in a common interest. Whether students participate in

team-oriented or individual competition sports, there are many opportunities for bonds to be formed and a helping hand to be lent. The springtime Special Olympics is no different.

Around eight years ago, Ms. Jessika Fontaine and Ms. Christina Waters joined together to organize Freedom’s Special Olympic team. Ever since, dozens of students within the district have participated in this day-long event. On March 22, Freedom students traveled to a preview event to learn what to expect and to get a taste of what the Special Olympics has to offer.

The Special Olympics for Beaver County was held on April 26 at Geneva College. There, students had the opportunity to participate in Track and Field events, including the 25, 50 , and 100 meter dashes, Tennis or Softball Throw, Running or Standing Long Jump or the Wheelchair Dashes. Athletes can participate in up to three events, two track events and one field event.

“I’m really excited about the 100-yard dash,” senior Steffan Paganie said.

For those who are not competing, they could serve as a “buddy” to another player. As a buddy, students are able to guide the athletes as they find their events, enjoy conversation and eat lunch together. Most importantly, buddies also provide support and encouragement for the athlete. The position of a buddy can be held by students and community members alike, as long as they possess the proper clearances.

Upon arrival, wearing matching team shirts, the buddies and athletes receive their event lists and times. Prior to the event, athletes are organized based on age and time/distances entered. This ensures that all participants receive a fair and enjoyable experience. Throughout the day, participants compete in their events and attend various activities. Organized by the Geneva college students, Special Olympics includes game sections for athletes and buddies to enjoy as well as photo opportunities with the Golden Tornado Mascot. After a fun-filled day, athletes are potentially awarded a gold, silver or bronze medal for each event that they participate in.

“One of my favorite parts is to see our students have fun, forget about all the challenges that they face every day while holding up a medal smiling as big as the sky and seeing others cheer for them!” Fontaine said.

No matter the outcome of the events, students gain a positive experience from the Special Olympics. This day brings the community together in an inclusive environment where no one is left unaccounted for. Filled with encouraging words and laughter, this event is something that people want to get involved in. In fact, each year leading up to this year, Rhodes Transit has donated a bus for Freedom’s team to travel to this event. This year was no exception with ABC Transit doing the same. As a show of their appreciation, participants posed for a photo in front of the bus and sent a thank you card to the company. For students and the community alike, the Special Olympics was truly a special time.

“It truly is a great day to watch a fantastic group of students come together in such a loving way that is unexplainable with words,” Fontaine said.