Lake Zurich Community Supports First Local Special Olympic Games

Over 375 athletes from 18 teams/agencies competed in the Area 13 Spring Special Olympics hosted by (LZHS), Saturday, April 30.

Athletes from all 18 teams/agencies from McHenry and Lake counties started training eight weeks prior, with hopes of earning a gold medal in their division and going on to the State Summer Games in Bloomington/Normal, IL.

This was the first time for Area 13 and Lake Zurich High School to host the Special Olympics Games.

“We used to attend the games at North Central College in Naperville, but Area 2 got so big we split and became Area 13. We needed a new venue and that’s when they approached us (LZHS) about hosting the event, explained Meghan Mowinski, head coach, Special Needs Athletic Program (SNAP), for Lake Zurich.

Hundreds of volunteers, athletes, coaches, and spectators were in attendance as the opening ceremonies commenced on the LZHS football field.

Each team/agency was announced and paraded onto the football field. Policemen from Lake Zurich and Fox Lake did the ceremonial run and lighting of the torch, accompanied by athlete Talia Kotel, Barrington Broncos.

Jeffrey Watkins, eighth grader, Middle School North, sang the national anthem and Tony Greene, SNAP athlete, led all athletes in the oathe.

Various members of the Lake Zurich community spoke on behalf of the inaugural event.

“I wish all the best of luck to all the athletes today,” said Michael J. Egan, superintendent at District 95.

“We are so proud to be hosting this event today,” said Kim Kolze, principal at LZHS.

“This is really a community event that goes beyond Lake Zurich,” said Lake Zurich Mayor Susanne K. Branding.

Athletes competed in various track and field events with each event divided into divisions by gender, age, and ability.

SNAP athlete Emily Nelson got fourth place in her division for the softball throw.

“I love the Special Olympics, it’s a lot of fun,” Nelson said.

Lake Zurich resident Jenna Snyder won the gold medal in her division for the softball throw.

“I’m thrilled that she won, “said Julie Snyder, Jenna's mom. “It’s so nice the Special Olympics are close to home now.”

Tony Green won the gold medal for the 100 meter run.

“I won! I won!”  Green exclaimed.

After each competition the athletes were brought to the awards area and given a medal and recognition for their efforts in each event.

According to Susan Foege, director of Area 13, the majority of the volunteers were from Lake Zurich and LZHS.

“The community has been so great in volunteering their time and donating money and food,” Foege said. “The Lions Club donated lunches; the Rotary Club was a silver medal sponsor; and St. Francis de Sales donated money as well.”

“I’ve been a member of the Lake Zurich community for 23 years and it doesn’t surprise me how supportive everyone is,” said Tom Thompson, board of directors, Special Olympics.

The games ran from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.