Amada Baldovinos 
EDINBURG- UTRGV is just one of 3 universities in Texas to get recognized as a Special Olympic Champion. The award recognizes schools that promote social inclusion, inclusive sports, and leadership for students with disabilities.
Special Olympics Rio Grande Valley is a program with over 5000 students enrolled, it allows children and adults with disabilities to develop physical fitness, friendships, and social and competitive skills.
“They feel they belong here, that they’re one of us, they see their ability and not the disability of the individual,” said Maria Trinidad, UTRGV Lecturer, and Unified Coach.
Student-athletes can also compete with students from Special Olympics programs from all over the state in sports such as basketball, indoor hockey, soccer, and track and field.
“Before each competition the athletes that are going to participate, let’s say they’re participating in basketball they need 8 weeks of training,” said Trinidad.
Most students with disabilities over the age of 18 and who are not in daycare don’t get the encouragement to stay physically active.
“Able to compete and be part of a bigger community, work within each other, and at the end we know that exercise is a great way to prevent a lot of conditions,” said Ivan Figueroa, UTRGV Lecturer, and Unified Partner
The next competition will take place on Feb. 17th. in Bee Cave Texas on Feb. 17th where the students will compete in the winter games.
