Triumph Through Teamwork: DeSales Hosts Special Olympics Pennsylvania Eastern Fall Sectional

Triumph Through Teamwork: DeSales Hosts Special Olympics Pennsylvania Eastern Fall Sectional

With over 850 competing athletes, 400 coaches, and 650 volunteers, the games for this year's Special Olympics Pennsylvania Eastern Fall Sectional were ready to commence.

While competition was fierce across all six events-from flag football to long-distance running and soccer-there was a sense of unity among all the athletes, coaches, and volunteers whose tireless and selfless work ensured the event ran as smoothly as possible.

This idea of unity was emphasized by Father James Greenfield, OSFS '84, Ed.D., president, during his opening prayer. "We are all one as God's family," he said, a sentiment that was echoed by others involved in the event.

"Special Olympics demonstrates how we can all come together and work toward one goal for the benefit of someone else, which is an ultimate selfless act. Special Olympics represents a day where we can all collectively come together and celebrate these athletes for their talents, their athleticism, and their general spirit."

Adam Perone '26, Olympic Village co-chair

This celebration of each athlete's feats and dignity was crucial for Perone and all those involved in planning and organizing this year's event.

"It's not about identifying them by their disability but about being there for them and putting them as people first," said Evan Colburn '26, this year's director of special events.

However, that's not to say that only the athletes were able to take something away from this year's event. Julia Fox '25, M'26 one of the co-chairs for the bocce committee, expressed what she hoped volunteers were able to get from this experience.

"There are things you can do that are bigger than just you; things that can make such a huge difference in so many people's lives by just giving a couple hours of your time," Fox said.

Ultimately, hosting Special Olympics helps DeSales fulfill its mission and values by creating a community where everyone is valued and accepted. For Connor McGill '25, this year's event director, that diversity is what makes our campus community strong.

"People should be able to feel included and okay with who they are," said McGill. "That is not only central to the Special Olympics mission, but it is also a necessity as a Catholic, Salesian university. One of the most important things is forming communities and places where people feel like they belong."

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