Students from the local Interact Club spent a bright Saturday morning filled with cheers, laughter, and teamwork as they volunteered at the regional Special Olympics event — a spirited lead-up to next week’s Texas Special Olympic Games.
Athletes from five area school districts came together for a day devoted to inclusion, sportsmanship, and celebration. The air buzzed with excitement as buses rolled in, bringing track stars, basketball teams, and wheelchair racers all eager to compete and connect. Interact members were ready at the starting lines and field stations, proudly wearing their blue volunteer shirts and big smiles.
Throughout the day, the student volunteers helped organize events, timed races, handed out water, and cheered louder than anyone in the stands. Between heats, they high-fived competitors, helped pin on medals, and encouraged athletes nervously stepping onto the field for their first-ever competition.
Coaches and families praised the volunteers for their energy and kindness. One Special Olympics coordinator noted that the teamwork between districts and student helpers reflected the true spirit of the games — inclusion and friendship beyond competition.
As the day closed with a unified dance celebration under the fading afternoon sun, athletes and volunteers joined hand-in-hand to share one last round of applause. The Interact students left tired but inspired, already asking how they could help again next week when the athletes take the big stage at the Texas Special Olympic Games.