Gold Medal Athletes/Special Olympics Summer Games

“Let’s go!” “You got this!” I spent a wonderful day this Summer cheering on some amazing athletes. I volunteered at the Special Olympics Connecticut Summer Games. This was a four day event held at three college universities - Southern Connecticut State University, Fairfield University and Yale University. The Summer events included swimming, soccer, tennis, cycling, track & field and racewalking. Arlene couldn’t make this one, so GiveBackGirl Sue joined me. It was nice to spend the day with Sue while helping out with the cycling venue at Yale University’s West Campus. When we arrived we chatted with other volunteers while enjoying coffee and donuts. We were provided our official SOCT volunteer t-shirts and then received our assignment. We were to guard the “Marshal One'' section of the course.

This spot was super busy! We had to use the walkie talkie to respond “all clear” when they called “Marshal One”. This sounds easy, but we were right next to the parking lot crosswalk. We had to act as a crossing guard and watch for cyclists coming around the corner. They were super fast and focused on the track. The last thing we wanted was for them to crash into a pedestrian! After all, Nurse Arlene was not around to respond! On top of this traffic, the TV reporters used this spot for filming and reporting. We were busy but loved the action!

The best part of the day, of course, was cheering on and interacting with the athletes. Their smiles were contagious, as was their enthusiasm. We exchanged many fist bumps throughout the day. We frequently heard “thank you” and “I’ll see you next year.” You’ll be here, right?” We assured them we would be. It was nice to see the friendships that the athletes had amongst themselves and with their families. The athletes were so proud of their medals and beamed with pride when we noticed them. Lunch was provided for all athletes and volunteers. There was also a health screening table for oral hygiene, manned by local college students in the dental hygienist program .

Super exciting - Arlene's neighbor, Joey Conover participated in the games and earned some medals. He even took home the gold!! What a Super Star! Congratulations Joey. We are so proud of you!

Join in on the fun! Become a volunteer! The Special Olympics Connecticut have year round games - Summer, Winter, Fall Festival and Holiday Classic. Please check out their volunteer page to see if there is something you would be interested in volunteering for. The Fall Festival looks like fun. It is this September 9, 10, 23, & 24. The events are croquet, bocce, golf, sailing and softball. Let us know if you go!