All Yuma delegation qualifiers now compete in athletics, powerlifting
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – After months of hard work, a large group of Yuma athletes received a special send-off to showcase their skills at the summer statewide competition. .
One of the biggest competitions of the year, the Special Olympics Arizona State Summer Games brings together more than 1,500 athletes across the state to showcase their skills in track and field, volleyball, powerlifting and esports.
For the Yuma delegation, dozens jumped on a bus and traveled to Glendale on Thursday afternoon to compete in track and field and powerlifting events after qualifying at last month’s regional competition.
“It’s a big thing for them. They’ve been practicing for a long time, so they’re excited to show off their skills and be with their friends,” said Yuma delegation director Kelly Smith. “Many of our athletes don’t get the chance to travel a lot in their day-to-day lives, so being able to go on these trips is an eye opener and a huge deal for them.”
In addition to his own competition, Special Olympics Arizona healthy athlete The program also provides free medical screening and education in mental health, sports physicals, podiatry, physical therapy, dentistry, and audiology.
This only adds to the excitement for each athlete who shifts out of their comfort zone and gets to participate in something truly special. ready for awards
“It’s about the medals. Gold and silver and the ceremony,” he said before getting on the bus. “It’s like every star (of our team) is fighting for a star!”
It was his mother who tagged along with him, pointing out the importance of the Special Olympics on days like this.
“I’m so proud of him. He’s happy and in his environment,” his mother said. “He really enjoys traveling and being part of the group. It’s It’s a pleasure. Special Olympics is great for them.”
And that excitement has been passed on to the volunteers and coaches involved in the Special Olympics. Shad Stahl enlisted this year to become a powerlifting coach. As he prepared to travel to his first state tournament, he was blown away by how special it was.
“It’s a big light for them. This is about them, this is their moment,” Stahl said. “They can spend the whole weekend and get the whole ‘shebang’. You can see this nice bus behind us. This is what they are all about. My first week of coaching.” Even from, it was a little emotionally taxing because of how exciting it all was.It felt a little different than I thought it would.This is great.”
The weekend at Kerris High School kicked off with a ceremony that included a parade of athletes, the lighting of a ceremonial torch, and a fan-favorite victory dance. continued.
