BC Special Olympics a Success

Brooks County—On March 22, 2023 Brooks County held their very first Special Olympics. The event took place at the new athletic complex located between Brooks County Middle School and Brooks County High School. They utilized the use of the track and field practice area on Amanda Perry Way and the baseball field for sporting events, informational booths, and stations.

Previously, Brooks County participated in the Special Olympics and has since 2014. Events were held in Valdosta for Area 15, but as part of the Special Olympics Georgia Agency, Brooks County wanted to host an event here at home. Brooks County students who participated in the last event prior to this year was in March of 2020. For many of the volunteers and parents three years of quarantine from any event was simply long enough.

The Brooks County Special Olympics Committee, led by Bridgette Culpepper, came together with volunteers to create this year’s first Special Olympic event in Brooks County in order to give back an event for special kids. With help of volunteers at the Brooks County Middle School, Brooks County High School, Delta Innovative School, school staff, parents, teachers, and community volunteers and the grant from Warde Chambers Public Education Grant, The Brooks County Special Olympics was held.

In this year’s event 82 student-athletes, ages 3-21, were able to attend and compete. These student-athletes were able to participate in four sporting events including the 50 M dash, softball toss, hit/base run, and soccer shoot. Small groups were formed with between four and seven members. Athletes were put in multi-age groups who have physical disabilities. Each group individual had the chance to win a ribbon. First, second and third place winners from each group and students received a ribbon for the 50 M dash. Ribbons were also distributed for participation in other events.

On March 23, 2023, social media blew up with posts and comments on how much this event was needed, enjoyed, and was so much fun. North Brooks Elementary School posted, “It was great to see all of the students at the BCSD Special Olympics having fun at each of the events! Everyone enjoyed the friendly competition and all around a great time at the athletic complex! We can’t wait until next year!”

“If you need a reason to smile today, look no further! Check out some of the #bestofbrooks enjoying our first annual Brooks County School District Special Olympics. The smiles captured in these images are just a small glimpse at what makes every day special in our schools!”, was written and shared by Best of Brooks Facebook page.

Several more parents, volunteers, and community members also shared their pictures and stories through social media. Be sure to check them all out and view the amazing photographs taken of this wonderful event.

If you are interested in volunteer for future events with the Special Olympics and other activities planned you may contact Bridgette Culpepper at bculpepper@brooks.k12.ga.us.