FAIRFIELD, Conn. - On Saturday, December 10, Fairfield University's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee held a dodgeball/kickball event which brought together Fairfield student-athletes and the athletes of the Special Olympics.
SAAC reached out to all of the varsity teams to participate while SAAC president Steve Flanagan of men's cross country and softball player Emily Orr helped with the logistics. Throughout the day, one dodgeball game and two kickball games were played. With a big turnout on both ends, the teams were divided up between Fairfield and Special Olympics athletes.
SAAC worked with Dr. Joe Dennin, math professor at Fairfield University, as his family volunteered to coordinate the attendance of the special athletes. The Dennins have a longstanding relationship with the program because of their son, David, who competes in the Special Olympics. As a professor to several student-athletes, Orr included, Dr. Dennin encourages the involvement of students with the Special Olympics.
Orr, who has spent time with special athletes, was very pleased with how Saturday turned out saying it was much more interactive than her past experiences.
"We were able to build a bond between Special Olympics and Fairfield," said Orr. "I really think because of how successful the event was, we will be able to establish a long running relationship between the athletic department and the Special Olympics."
All of the student-athletes involved came away from the event both with new friends and a new inspiration.
"Everyone I talked to afterwards said that it was one of the best experiences they've been involved in at Fairfield," Flanagan continued "I really hope SAAC continues this new found relationship with Special Olympics in the future."