The first time since I've been involved in Special Olympics, national media coverage finally discovered what we have known all along-how sport can change lives for people with disabilities and that they all have a story. ESPN did an exceptional job covering the World Games and their writers sought out and featured our athletes narratives-so much so, that we as coaches experienced more of the public "getting it." Not just saying they know what SO is about, but really understanding and accepting it.
Through countless interviews for TV coverage, newspaper stories, online pieces and social media, the athletes shared their lives with the world. Smiles, high fives, hugs, ribbons and medals were their reward for hard work and dedication to their sport. I think the joy in what they've accomplished can be reflected in their faces-pride in themselves and for everyone who has supported them.
I hope I've captured some of that-these are the athletes of our Athletics (track and field) team.
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| Nicole-Sprinter |
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| Laurene-Race Walk |
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| Keith-Sprinter |
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| Linda-Sprinter |
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| Kendal-Sprinter |
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| Mike-Sprinter |
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| Mark-Middle Distance |
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| "D"-Middle Distance |
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| Alex-1/2 Marathon |
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| Ashley-Distance |
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| Destiny-Sprinter |
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| Chauncy-Sprinter |
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| Ben-Sprinter |
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| Casey-Pentathlete |
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| Thomas-Sprinter |
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| Karen-1/2 Marathon |
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| Brittany- Sprinter |
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| Olivia- Sprinter |
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| Briana- Sprinter |
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| Josh- Distance |
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| Chuck-Jav |
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| Jose-Jav |
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| Brandon-Sprinter |
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| Robert-Throws |
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| Shakila-Sprinter |
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| Alberta- LJ |
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| Gillian-Middle Distance |
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| Laura-Middle Distance |
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| Theo-Sprinter |
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| Hayden-Race Walk |
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| Jordan-RaceWalk |
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| Dillon-Middle Distance |
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| Steve-Head Coach |
