Athletes with intellectual disabilities display physical abilities
FLINT -- In any high school gym, you'll find the same thing--athletes preparing for battle and fans and parents cheering them on.
But for the Special Olympics in Flint, Poly Hockey gives those with intellectual disabilities to develop and demonstrate their skills through athletics.
"It's just like regular Michigan high school athletics, what Special Olympics offers," said Sheila Gafney, coach of Special Olympics hockey. "I don't know what these kids would do without sports."
That includes Eric Glosser, 19, who has played Poly Hockey for seven years and has emerged as a leader for his team.
"I like the games," he said.
Craig Hatton, father of another athlete, Justin, wants the same for his son, along with developing social skills and having fun with Glosser and the other athletes.
"He's out there smailing all the time. As long as he's doing that, that's what he encourages him to do," said Hatton.
Poly Hockey is one of 23 sports offered by the Special Olympics year-round, with eight state-wide tournaments, a regional basketball tournament and 447 area level competitions.
