Photo By Cpl. Abigail Brown | An athlete in the 2011 Special Olympics Onslow County Fall Games gives Richard Cole,...... read more read more
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MARINE CORPS AIR STATION NEW RIVER, N.C. - More than 150 Marines from Marine Corps Air Station New River’s Single Marine Program came out to support athletes competing in the Special Olympics Onslow County Fall Games, Dec. 2.
The ‘Fall Games’ was an individual-skills competition composed of athletes from 17 delegations across the county.
The opening ceremony included a speech by Col. Jeffrey M. Hewlett, the air station’s commanding officer, an appearance by Santa Claus and a torch lighting.
When the games began athletes were divided into divisions and eagerly warmed up for the long anticipated Fall Games.
“We did a lot of exercises which helped us out,” said Jennifer Odum, a returning athlete. “A lot of it was passing, shooting and running.”
The main games consisted of a 10-meter dribble, a ‘spot shot’ where athletes shot from designated points, and a target shoot.
Volunteers escorted athletes from their competitions to other events available including a craft room and a dance area.
“I love seeing all the smiles,” said Lance Cpl. Robin Belmonte, an engine mechanic with Marine Aircraft Logistics Squadron 29. “It’s important to bring the athletes together and see them build their confidence.”
In addition to building confidence, the athletes also get to develop a community of friends with the same interests.
“Everyone is here for the athletes today—it’s all about them,” said Dawn McCullen, Special Olympics Onslow County coordinator. “These games unify the community and give the athletes a sense of well-being.”
As the games progressed, scores were tallied and excitement rose in anticipation of the results.
“Everyone here is a winner, but many of the athletes are very competitive and won’t be happy unless they can walk away with a blue ribbon,” McCullen said.
Instead of ribbons, the Marines volunteering got joy from being able to give back to the community.
“I keep coming back because this is fun,” Staff Sgt. Kene Roberts, assistant maintenance chief, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 26. “It’s good for these Marines to take every opportunity to share and give back to the community.”
As the Fall Games ended, athletes and volunteers alike could cherish their new memories and friends.
“The support we got here on base, from the Single Marine Program and Logan’s, who provided our lunch, was incredible,” McCullen said.
For more information on upcoming Special Olympics Onslow County, visit http://www.sonconslow.org.
| Date Taken: | 12.07.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 12.07.2011 08:40 |
| Story ID: | 80996 |
| Location: | AL, US |
| Web Views: | 83 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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