Special Olympics got a special reception

THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS Games for the GGUSD were held Friday at Monsoor Stadium on the Garden Grove High campus (GGUSD photo).

Approximately 700 Garden Grove Unified School District students with special needs competed in Olympic-style competitions during the district’s 50^th annual Special Games on Friday at the Michael A. Monsoor Memorial Stadium at Garden Grove High School. The event is organized by the GGUSD Adapted Physical Education Department and the Special Olympics of Southern California.

When the district’s 700 student athletes arrived at the stadium, they were greeted with cheers from high school student leaders. Approximately 400 student leaders from the district’s eight high schools volunteer to run Special Games events, including relays, softball toss, soccer kick, football throw, volleyball, basketball, face painting, and more. Special Games kicked off with a mascot race, musical performances, and a torch relay.

“Special Games brings out the best in our students and showcases the supportive and caring culture our district provides for students of all abilities,” said Lan Nguyen, board of education president.