GCISD’s Special Olympics athletes are excited to compete in the Special Olympics Area Bocce Ball competition September 20-21 in Farmers Branch, followed by the State Competition October 3-5 in Midland and Odessa. Some state events like the opening ceremonies will be held in Midland, while competitions like bocce ball will be in Odessa. GCISD’s athletes spent last school year learning about the game and developing their skills and now they will compete in bocce ball, which is a relatively new sport in Special Olympics.
Parent Rahim Pirwani expressed his excitement about his son Ali’s participation.
"For Ali, this is a big deal. He's been involved in GCISD Special Olympics since elementary school, but bocce ball is new to us," said Pirwani. "He's been watching YouTube videos on how to play, coming to practice this year and is really excited to compete."
Adaptive P.E. Coach Trent Edwards, who has been GCISD Special Olympics organizer for the past 13 years, said that, "bocce ball is a sport where athletes can be successful no matter their skill level. It builds their confidence, and they really enjoy it."
He also said that it’s similar to bowling, which is one of the other events in GCISD’s Special Olympics.
Looking ahead, GCISD Special Olympics is also preparing for its 2nd annual bocce ball tournament in February 2025. Community involvement is encouraged, with students, athletes, and local volunteers working together to make the event a success.
Parents like Pirwani are enthusiastic about the positive impact of Special Olympics.
"It's a blessing," he said. "Special Olympics is something that everyone should know about. There’s so much joy and enthusiasm at these events, and I would encourage every parent to come and witness it."
If you have a child who would like to join GCISD Special Olympics, or to support any of their upcoming events, visit www.gcisd.net/specialolympics.
