More than 700 athletes competed in volleyball at Harlem High School on Saturday and Sunday – including 50 teams and 45 athletes who competed in individual skills competition. Six of the volleyball teams were Unified teams which include players with and without intellectual disabilities competing against other Unified teams.
Nearly 120 athletes competed in equestrian competition, including dressage, English equitation, showmanship, stock seat equitation and working trails at BraveHearts at Bergmann Centre in Poplar Grove.
The Opening Ceremonies and dance took place on Saturday night at Harlem High School. Athletes let loose on the dance floor in a colorful array of Halloween costumes.
About Special Olympics Illinois:
Special Olympics Illinois is a not-for-profit organization offering year-round training and competition in 19 sports for more than 21,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities and more than 11,000 Young Athletes ages 2-7 with and without intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics promotes acceptance for all and changes lives by empowering people with intellectual disabilities to realize their full potential in sports and in life. Special Olympics programs enhance physical fitness, motor skills, self-confidence, social skills and encourage family and community support. If you are interested in learning more about Special Olympics Illinois, volunteering or providing financial support to help make Special Olympics programs possible, contact your local Special Olympics agency, call 800-394-0562 or visit our website at www.soill.org.