The Coppell Varsity Football team honored Coppell Special Olympics athletes at the football season opener Friday night. The team, in recognition of all of the hard work that the Olympians do to reach their goals, dedicated the season to the Special Olympics group.
The Olympic athletes met pre-game with their families and donned Coppell jerseys. They lined the exit from the CHS Field House and greeted the Varsity football players as they ran onto the field for the kick-off. The athletes then went into the end zone and were recognized individually before the crowd at Buddy Echols Field.
Angela Campbell, director of Coppell Special Olympics, coordinated the efforts along with members of the Coppell Football Booster Club Board. Mike Point, father of Special Olympian Preston Point, summed up the importance of the evening to his family saying, “No one knows what goes on in the mind of a special needs child. However, we can see their expression of joy from time to time through the actions of others. Coppell High School provides for inclusion inside and outside of the classroom. The opportunity to have these students participate in Friday Night Lights through the Football Booster Club, CHS Football coaches/players, and support by their parents provides them an added avenue to experience happiness that is well deserved.”
Varsity football captain Skyler Seidman said acknowledging the Special Olympians is important to the players. “I thought it was awesome to include the Special Olympics Athletes in the pep rally and the pre-game festivities. They work hard at what they do! I loved seeing all of the athletes support us as we headed to the field. I think it’s important for our team to focus on Special Olympics because they work hard to be the best they can be. They deserve to be recognized and congratulated on their accomplishments,” Seidman said.
Head Football Coach Mike DeWitt says inclusion of special needs students has only enhanced the program. “Our assistant coach, Cole Bryant, is also a Special Olympian. He brings joy and enthusiasm to our coaching staff and players every day. He never gives up and his determination and positive focus makes us better, “DeWitt added.
Coppell Football has adopted the mantra “Victory Through Unity” for the 2016 season, focusing on the idea that there is more than winning the game on the field. Victory Through Unity is the pursuit of excellence in everything, and it is the character, integrity and leadership that exemplifies victory off the field in everyday life.