MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - With the NFL still in lock out, arguing over billions of dollars, and scandal seemingly plaguing amateur athletics on every level, it can be easy to give up on the state of sports. But there is a group of special athletes who will quickly remind you what it means to play for the love of the game.
"I do 50 meter, 25 meter, the relay and the backstroke," said Special Olympian Connie Myers.
They're events that nearly every athlete has done at least once, but it's safe to say there is no group that has more fun, or takes more pride in competing than this group of special athletes.
"The athletes raise to a new level. It makes them feel better about themselves, and they should feel better," said one of Area 16's coaches, Raymond Dadducci.
On Wednesday, the Area 16 Horry County Special Olympics team held their last practice in preparation for the statewide Special Olympics held in Columbia on Friday.
"The states is the reason why they come out here and put their hard sweat and time on the track," said Dadducci.
These special athletes receive their coaching and training from volunteers, some as young as 11 years old.
"I came to one practice and decided this is what I should be doing. I should be helping kids who have a disability," said Ortez Myers, the 11-year old volunteer.
The support and encouragement from volunteers and parents have allowed these special athletes to achieve some incredible things.
"Some of them are much better in the pool than I am, I wouldn't want to be put up to race against any of them," said Mary Clark, who helps coach swimming.
With success comes recognition, but for these special athletes it's about showing those who have said they can't, that they most certainly can.
The Area 16 squad departs for Columbia tomorrow morning and will compete throughout the weekend.
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