Cape Coral High hosts Special Olympics, fostering unity and fun

Author: Cristina Pop
Published: Updated:

Cape Coral High School recently hosted a groundbreaking Special Olympics event bringing together athletes from Cape Coral High School and Mariner High School for a day of friendly competition on the softball field.

This event was part of Cape High’s Unified Program, which started two years ago to support ESE students at the school.

The athletes participated in various activities, including cornhole, croquet, flag football, and basketball. Each athlete had a peer buddy, another high school student, ensuring they enjoyed the event.

Initially planned as a tournament where ESE students from both schools would compete for points, the event quickly shifted focus. Just ten minutes in, teachers realized the students were more interested in having a good time.

“It’s always fun when we get together, as far as that competitive spirits come out,” said Kelly Shoen, an ESE teacher and department chair at Mariner High School. “But sometimes it’s even better just to come out and just kind of see some old friends and meet some new friends and get a chance to go ahead and play against each other.”

The Special Olympics teams at Cape Coral schools also compete with teams from other cities and counties. They were recently in Orlando for a basketball tournament, showing their enthusiasm for these sports.

This event highlights the importance of community and camaraderie among students, ensuring everyone has a chance to participate and enjoy.

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