let me win.
but if I cannot win,
let me be brave
in the attempt.
athlete oath
Ms. Connie Pado spoke with parents about Special Olympics and her commitment to providing a fun and sportsman-like atmosphere for athletes while learning the sport they are competing in.
Ms. Pado has been a Special Olympics coach since 2000 in the Union Missouri School District. The Union High School began giving Special Olympic athletes varsity letters for their letterman jackets in 2004. A Special Olympics assembly also takes place in the high school gym with all student body in attendance to recognize athletes. I was at the assembly last month and it was amazing to see not only the athletes being recognized for their hard work but their peers cheering and whistling for each and every athlete being presented with their varsity letter.
Special Olympics are for children 8 years old and up. Ms. Pado would like to see a young athletes program begin for younger ages in the future.
The high school level competes in 5 different sports: swimming, bowling, botchi, softball and basketball.
Ms. Pado also brought literature about Special Olympics for all the parents. To get more information about Special Olympics you can call 573-635-1660 or www.somo.org .
(I also want to mention that Ms. Pado's coaching is purely volunteer. She does not receive any financial compensation.)
Reminder: the next parent meeting is June 2nd!
