Carolyn Campbell, a junior at Father Gabriel Richard in Ann Arbor was in charge of Special Olympics Day at the school. Athletic Director Hally Yonko says the students came up with the idea from their past participation through the Fellowship of Christian Athletics.More than 100 Special Olympians and 30 coaches joined 545 students for the event. The fundraiser benefited Special Olympics in Washtenaw County.
Jasmin, a participant, says she loves to play softball. After her first base hit, one of the high school students ran for her. The students were divided into teams of different colors.
Principal Brian Wolcott notes, “The credit goes to the kids and staff. They said yes to what God wanted.”
Deacon Dave Lawrence coaches both track and football. His daughter who is seven will participate in the Special Olympics next year. He has been involved for 35 years with Special Olympics. He says, “Our kids work with the Special Olympic kids, but this is the first time they are doing it at school.”
Special Olympic students arrived from Chelsea and Saline; Ann Arbor schools, Ann Arbor Huron High and Willow Run. During the lunch break, they enjoyed Domino Pizza provided for the Special Olympic players by CEO Patrick Doyle.
by Jan Hoffbauer