Houston County Special Olympians Participate in Winter Games

KATHLEEN, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – More than a hundred Houston County students Friday took part in the county’s Winter Special Olympics at Veterans High School.

Skills challenges, 3-on-3 basketball tournaments, face painting and more.

Special Olympians were busy all day at Houston County’s Winter Games.

“They’re in the Special Olympics programs in the middle schools and high schools here in the county,” says volunteer, Donna Allen.  “I think it’s five middle schools and five high schools.  It’s a lot of children, and everyone is so excited.”

These athletes are cheered on by sports players from their high schools, who say now it’s their turn to offer support.

“(Being) the captain of the football team, I just want to make it my duty to help them out,” says Warner Robins senior, Rod Harris.  “It’s like a big game for them–like the Northside/Warner Robins games.”

Kyle King, a junior at Veterans High, agrees.

“We get to cheer on our friends and stuff,” says King.  “Actually, one of the kids is our baseball manager.”

“I felt like it’s my duty just to help them out and just to support them,” says Warner Robins senior, Bryson Bazley.  “It’s such a special day for them.  It’s not necessarily all about is, but it’s about them–just helping them and seeing them smile, have fun, and get out and get active.”

Donna Allen has volunteered with the Special Olympics for more than 20 years.

“It just makes me feel good to be with the families and the students and the volunteers and to just be a part of it,” says Allen.  “Do something for them.”

And win or lose, it’s safe to say these kids won’t forget this day for awhile.

Organizers tell us about 20 of those students will move on to next weekend’s state games in Atlanta.

If you’d like to donate to the Houston County Special Olympics, e-mail rebecca.banks@HCBE.net.