Special Olympics Massachusetts holds the annual Somerville School Day Games

Each spring Special Olympics Massachusetts holds the annual Somerville School Day Games at Dilboy Stadium. Over 150 student athletes with intellectual disabilities throughout Somerville participate in the event.

Ian Comack, a Brown School Physical Education Teacher, has been involved in this event for years and says, “I think it’s a great day to get the kids outside, get them moving, to have fun. You get to see the kids from all around the city. It’s really a great time for everybody.”

Several of Comack’s students gathered around him, freely expressing the pleasures of the day. Their enthusiasm is contagious. For Comack, the Special Olympics and the kids’ enthusiasm are both terrific teachers.

“I learned a tremendous amount,” said Comack. “I learned a lot of patience, learned to laugh, learned to let things go, and just enjoy yourself.”

Macey Miller and Jenna Hopkins were first time volunteers for the Special Olympics this year. They also feel the kids are teaching them valuable lessons. “It’s amazing just to see the kids having fun and they are doing an awesome job right now,” said Miller.

“Even just to see the smile on their faces brightens your day,” said Hopkins. “It’s also great to give back to the community, and help out whenever you can.”

The Special Olympics offers sports competitions for those with intellectual disabilities throughout the year. You can get further information at www.specialolympicsma.org.

Somerville Neighborhood News is a production of Somerville Community Access Television, made by professional journalists, volunteers and staff. The half-hour news show has as its mission to provide a lively, informative newscast focusing on the events, issues and information impacting Somerville residents.