Special Olympics 2009

I can't believe this years Special Olympic Basketball season is over. It was such a great season with almost double the Lehi athletes from when Spencer started three years ago. Here's Kate and I at the opening ceremonies where the Jazz Bear was there tossing out little basketballs to the crowd. Kate's favorite part was the lighting of the torch but then she was mad because she wanted to lite it herself, figures.

After the opening ceremonies we went to the dance where we all got to bust a move. Visit the site below to see Kate dancing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlfR_7AtiQc

My favorite part of the dance video is when Kate does her pointing dance - Lindsey was on the Lehi B Team and when we gave her a ride to the Opening ceremonies she sat next to Kate. She has downs syndrome and wouldn't give Kate any bubble space so every time she would try to talk to Kate in the car Kate would turn her head the other way. It was really funny.

Because there were so many players this year they had to split into two teams - Team A (the more talented players) and Team B (the not as talented players). At the games Spencer coached the B team and led them to take the bronze medal in their division. The Lehi A team won the Silver medal in their division. They were all so excited because this is the first year Lehi Basketball received a medal.

The B Team

Here's the A Team. They too did awesome and placed 2nd in their division winning the silver medal.

I'm so grateful for the opportunity to watch these very special individuals and volunteers come together for 2 days. Every year it brings a tear to my eye to be amidst these blessed children of God. If only everyone saw the world through their eyes. It's been a wonderful season and the Lehi Basketball Team is already planning to win the gold medal for next year. As Spencer always tells the players "It's not about having fun, its about winning"