The St. Bernard Parish Public School System’s recent Special Olympics was a true community celebration. Held each year at Chalmette High’s Bobby Nuss Stadium, the games featured 136 athletes with special needs, competing in a variety of track and field events.
The morning began with a parade with the athletes processing in to loud cheers from family, friends, and fans. Local community leaders, businesses, and other governmental agencies joined the members of the School Board in the opening ceremony. After the National Anthem was sung, and Superintendent Doris Voitier welcomed everyone, it was time for the games to begin.
St. Bernard Parish School System has been proudly participating in Special Olympics for decades and is touted as one of the best in the state. In fact, last year it was recognized as a program of distinction by the state of Louisiana.
Special credit should go to the dozens of student and community volunteers who kept the games running smoothly.
School Board President Clifford Englande said this event is one of the highlights of the year.
“Today is truly a special day filled with such joy,” he said. “From the Chalmette High School ‘buddies’ who coach our Olympians to the community partners who cheer them on, today is about coming together as a community to celebrate the best of us – our students.”
Englande said planning such a large event takes months of preparation. “Special Olympics is a result of the countless hours of hard work by school administrators, volunteers, and other government agencies,” he said.
Paul Frey, the Director of Special Olympics for St. Bernard Parish Schools, said creating a family feel for the event was a big part of its success.
“I was so proud of each athlete from each of our schools,” Frey said. “With so much emphasis on competition and winning in our society today, it was nice to be reminded of the joy of friendly sportsmanship.”
He said the Special Olympics Oath – recited each year at the Games – is a good reminder for all of us.
“Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
Frey said he is grateful for athletes, families, school staff, volunteers, student buddies, school board members and
administrators who attended and made this memorable
event possible.
“I would also like to give a special shout-out to the Special Olympics committee for their dedication and countless hours of work each and every year and to our community sponsors for your help and dedication,” Frey said. “Together, we make this track and field event another opportunity for our champions of courage to shine and get them ready for the state competition in May.”