Though many shivered in their sweatshirts under gray skies and a biting wind, the special education students acted as if it was a sunny summer day. On Thursday, Dublin High School hosted the second annual preschool and elementary school soccer tournament – featuring schools from around the Tri-Valley area.
The student-athletes enjoyed the parade of athletes, soccer skills stations, games and were all awarded ribbons for participating. The day was part of the Special Olympics Northern California Schools Partnership Program. The student-athletes train during the school day in their special education classroom in three sports – soccer in the fall, basketball in the winter and track & field in the spring – and then compete at an event like the one held Thursday.
The Dublin High School Irish Guard kicked off the parade of athletes and then kicked the atmosphere up a notch by playing from the stand. It was also great to see the general education students out there – helping to run the drills stations and games.
The DHS Robotics Club was back – and better than ever! They retooled their soccer shooting robot and the student-athletes loved it.
One local officer escorted three young athletes and the Flame of Hope down the track as part of the opening ceremonies. Then he and his partner were on hand to pass out ribbons to the athletes.
A group of 20 military personnel stationed at nearby Camp Parks were also in attendance. All were happy to give back to their community – serving as cheerleaders and heroes to the local athletes.
Thanks to everyone for making today such a great day for everyone involved!