Reach Rockets Shine with Silver at Special Olympics: A Triumph of Determination and Team Spirit
The Reach Rockets Soccer team, a group of dedicated athletes from Reach Unlimited, recently emerged with a Silver Medal from the Special Olympics games. The event, hosted at the Robert E. Lee High School in Baytown, was a significant milestone for both the team and the organization's mission to foster social skills, leadership, sportsmanship, and physical wellness among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The path to the Silver Medal came through determination, discipline, and a fruitful partnership with Sports Quest, which provided critical training and preparation for the Reach Rockets. For nearly 30 years, Sports Quest has offered specialized soccer training through various programs like camps and homeschooling, catering to underserved kids and individuals with special needs while promoting values of excellence, integrity, love, and humility.
To prepare for the Special Olympics East Region Baytown Spring Games, the team, constituted of 11 Reach Unlimited members, trained every Tuesday, honing their skills and building teamwork for the big competition. The Games included sporting events in track and field, soccer, tennis.
Juan Clopton, LAC Director for Reach Unlimited, emphasized the emotional impact of the win. "The entire team and coaches were proud of the heart the members displayed while playing the games. The team felt a sense of camaraderie," said Clopton. "All the athletes wore their silver medals on Monday after the games."
Founded on the belief that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve to live a life full of joy, purpose, and accomplishment, Reach Unlimited provides comprehensive programs and services to foster personal growth, create a secure environment, and cultivate physical wellness. Participation in events like the Special Olympics is a key part of Reach Unlimited's commitment to their members.
"The Special Olympics allowed us to build social and communication skills, leadership skills, and promote good sportsmanship," Clopton shared. "It highlights our commitment to equipping our members to achieve their personal goals and promoting physical wellness."
The team's ambition doesn't stop with soccer. Reach Unlimited is planning to make their mark in an upcoming Special Olympics event, featuring bocce ball and softball. The silver medals worn by the Reach Rockets are more than just symbols of victory - they are the embodiment of their personal accomplishment, resilience, and the heart of Reach Unlimited.
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Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
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