Long Beach City College revealed a new partnership with Special Olympics Southern California, allowing SOSC athletes to utilize the facilities at LBCC.
Eunice Kennedy Shriver founded the Special Olympics in 1968 after realizing the injustice for people with intellectual disabilities. Just a year later, Olympic decathlon gold medalist Rafer Johnson founded the Western Regional Special Olympics.
Practice meetings for SOSC athletes will be held every Tuesday and Thursdays. Currently, spring sports are in session, starting February and ending in June.
Sports that are offered during the spring season are basketball, bocce, flag football, swimming and athletics.
“The Special Olympics gets my son to come out after his day programs and gets his body moving,” said Thomas’ father Benny Richardson, Special Olympics athletics coach.
Their mission is to promote acceptance, inclusion, physical and mental well-being for people with intellectual disabilities with the help of sports and exercise.
Many of the athletes, ranging in age, have participated in the SOSC games for many years.
“Once they’re here, they love it,” said Jen Trotman, Special Olympics athletics coach.
Joshua Woodall, a basketball player, came to the special olympics when he was just 17 years old and continues to participate now as a 31 year old.
“I love it! I’ve learned how to do layups and tricks,” said Joshua Woodall.
The SOSC helps assist athletes with special needs to get active, build confidence and socialize.
Shriver’s and Johnson’s legacy carries on through Special Olympic athletes, coaches and volunteers today who continue to advocate and support people with intellectual disabilities.
The final athletics meet will be held June 10th and 11th at CSULB.