St. Angela Merici Catholic School recently hosted an elementary school sports festival for 37 special athletes from 11 Catholic school communities across the district. 

The sports festival is an introductory event, where elementary students with intellectual disabilities have the opportunity to try ability-appropriate activities and games that promote physical activity and healthy living.

“We host these special events around the province as a way to introduce young athletes, teachers and families to the Special Olympics movement and to share ideas and resources,” says Ryan Colpitts, Program Developer with Special Olympics Ontario.

Some of the games and activities included basketball, bocce ball, soccer, floor curling, mini golf, dance and bowling. 

“This was a tremendous event,” says Ed Freeburn, Acting Vice Principal of St. Angela Merici Catholic School.  “What an awesome experience for the special athletes who participated and for all of the many adult and student volunteers who helped make the event possible!”

Transportation costs were paid by Special Olympics Ontario, which organizes about 15 sports festivals across the province each year.