Through hard work and dedication, LCM Team Force has qualified to compete at the State games of the Special Olympics held at the University of Texas at Arlington May 24-27.

Much like the Olympics, this event has many different sports that the students can compete and place in. At the Special Olympics, the participants can be involved in a variety of events and activities. Ranging from sports to games, there is a little something for everyone.

“Special Olympics athletes compete on teams with their unified partners,” Team Force Coach Terrie Parker said. “In May our unified teams will compete in the 100 meter and 200 meter relay races. We will also compete in the mini-javelin throw.”

Having participated in the Special Olympics in previous years, the athletes and their partners are excited and know exactly how to prepare to bring their team straight to the finish line. The team always puts in extra practice to make they always do their best.

“Special Olympics actually includes several sports, just like the Olympics,” Parker said. “Team Force participates in bowling, track, basketball, and bocce. For all events we practice during the school day. However, for our track events we practice both during and after school.”

Middle in the Middle is an organization that works with the students in the Special Olympics and some are also members of the team. Through this organization, all of the students are able to come together to work hard to achieve all of the same goals.

“Special Olympics is open to any club, organization, or school,” Parker said. “Meet in the Middle is the club at our school that is involved, but any student can volunteer.”

All of the students and their parents are very excited about the team’s achievements and are looking forward to the meet.

“Through Special Olympics our students have been able to participate in sporting events that have previously not been available to them,” Parker said. “Through this we are able to make new friends. Peer relationships are very important to our students. Both are learning new skills from one another. These are lifelong lessons that will affect everyone for a lifetime.”