Banks County School System recently celebrated what many call the “Best Day of the Year” — the annual Special Olympics. This much-anticipated event brought together students, families, staff, and community members for a day filled with excitement, encouragement, and joy.
The day is always celebrated before Spring Break for Banks County Schools.
Over 80 athletes from across the district participated in various events, including long jump, shot put, throw, racing competitions, and activities in the Special Olympics Village. The atmosphere was pure celebration with cheers from fellow students in the stands from all schools and support from family and community members.
The success of the day was made possible by the tremendous community support. A wide range of local sponsors and vendors contributed to the event, including:
- Northeast GA Well Drilling
- Intelligent Networks Inc.
- Bouchard Farms
- Emergency Billing
- Commerce Café
- Griffin Brothers Inc.
- Jackson EMC
- Tim Harper -Banks County Clerk of Courts
- Dr. Mark Stroud -Banks County Board of Education Chair
- 'Loons by LaLa – Channing Boswell
- Chamber CVB
- Redemption Outreach
- Rotary Club of Banks County
- Culver’s-Daniel and Ai Tran
- Josh Gastley
- My Georgia Credit Union
- Kyle Clay
- Gail Whitlock
- Piedmont Healthcare
- Metro Site Fabricators
- Banks County Health Department with District 2 Public Health
- G & G Inflatables
- Crump Photo
- UGA Landscape Architecture Department
- Banks County Sheriffs Office
- Toyota
Blair Loggins, Special Olympics Coordinator, shared her excitement about the day:
“Special Olympics truly is the best day of the year! It paints a beautiful picture of determination, inclusion, friendship, and community. Our athletes did amazing, and seeing them win their medals was pure joy. Thank you so much to our peer buddies, families, sponsors, volunteers, school system, and community for your never-ending support! This day wouldn't have been possible without the support of the parents, staff, and community!’’
Throughout the year, Banks County athletes compete in statewide events across all seasons:
Fall State: Bocce
Winter State: Bowling, Powerlifting, Basketball
Summer State: Track & Field, Tennis
The program is also exploring the addition of new sports categories, such as softball, to further expand opportunities for student-athletes.
The Special Olympics program is currently hosting an online auction to help support these competitions and travel expenses. All proceeds will go toward funding athlete participation in state games throughout the year.
To view and participate in the auction, please visit:
https://givebutter.com/c/6GHWoc/auction
Photo Credit to Crump Photos at https://crumpphoto.instaproofs.com/