Stephens Co. Special Olympics Holds Spring Games

The Special Olympic torch enters the SCHS football stadium for Friday's Special Olympics Spring Games.

The Special Olympic torch enters the SCHS football stadium for Friday’s Special Olympics Spring Games.

Stephens County Special Olympians take to the field.

The annual Stephens County Special Olympics Spring Games took place Friday at the Stephens County High School football stadium.

Athletes from all over the county gathered to compete in a number of events and also enjoy other activities.

Stephens County Special Olympics Local Coordinator Kevin Phillips said that everything went well on Friday for the games.

“We are thankful that it turned out to be a beautiful day,” said Phillips. “We are sure glad that the kids are able to come out and have a good time.”

This year, the Special Olympics added a pep rally Thursday night prior to the games on Friday.

Phillips said that was a great addition to the festivities.

“It went good,” said Phillips. “We had Cory Cleveland come out and do a concert for them and we had games for them. We had a good turnout from the community also. I know it made the kids feel good. They were excited.”

Phillips went on to say that the number of athletes participating in Special Olympics continues to grow and grow each year.

“We added the Masters’ program which has grown,” said Phillips. “Right now, we are averaging about 100 athletes.”

With all of those athletes participating, it takes a host of volunteers to make the Special Olympics Spring Games happen.

Phillips said he appreciates all of those volunteers who gave of their time to help make the games happen again this year.

“I cannot say thank you enough,” said Phillips. “Without them, we could not do what we do today. It really means a lot to me.”

Phillips said he also appreciates all of the businesses and other organizations that contribute to the Special Olympics Spring Games each year to help make it such a success.