When I was in 7^th grade I started volunteering for my sister’s Special Olympics Cheerleading team. At the time, the team was pretty small. Our coach created the team to be unified; meaning individuals with special needs and regular ed individuals could all participate and be on a team together. I loved this aspect of the team because it gave me a chance to participate in a sport I loved so much, while also spending time with my sister. As the years went on our team continued to grow and grow. This year we had a total of 54 athletes, unified partners, and other volunteers combined.

Being a part of such an amazing team for so many years has taught me so much. The athletes continuously impress and inspire me with their skills and positive attitudes.

1. I have learned the value of patience.

Growing up with a sister with special needs and being around other special needs athletes, I have learned how important it is to have patience and show compassion towards others. Just because others may not learn or function the same as I do, does not mean that they are less capable. Finding creative ways to teach dances and cheers has helped me grow in ways I never imagined. This team pushes me to be a better cheerleader, sister, friend, and individual in my community.

2. It reminds me that you are never too old to stop dancing.

Our team has no age limit. We have a mix of children, teens, and adults on our team, and we are all able to perform together. As I get older, the athletes on the team are a great reminder to me that age is just a number. As long you preserve your passion and determination, you can achieve anything.

3. There is no drama…ever.

All sports teams seem to run into some type of drama during their season, but our team is different. Everyone involved in our team is so supportive and caring. Whether it is the coaches, the parents, the athletes, or the unified partners, we all are committed to building each other up and looking after one another.

4. I have gained so many new friends.

One of my favorite parts about the season is the first practice. At the first practice I am not only able to greet and catch up will all of the returning athletes, but I am also able to meet all of the amazing new athletes and unified partners. It is so exciting to talk to new members who are so passionate about being a part of the team. They may think that they are becoming a part of a new team, but they are also becoming part of a family.

5. The competitions are so fun.

At competitions, Special Olympics cheer teams from all over our state come to compete and show off how hard we all have been working during the past season. I am always blown away by how talented all the teams are. And before awards are presented, we all get to have a giant dance party filled with moon walking and conga lines. Even though we are all competing for the gold, we are still cheering for each other and at dance party we are all "one" dancing together. It is so much fun!

6. We get to be mini-celebrities in our county.

Our team has had some amazing opportunities to travel to competitions and World Games. Before and after these events, many members have been able to be featured in the local paper. The amount of support our team receives from the community is amazing! And after winning a competition, the athletes are then able to sport around their collection of medals and National Champion jackets, which just adds to the celebrity status.

7. We get to spread cheer and joy at other Special Olympic sporting events.

Whether it is a Special Olympics basketball game or a 5K run, our team will be there to cheer everyone on. Events like these are great for building community, and also meeting more talented Special Olympics athletes.

8. I leave every practice with a smile.

Whether we have a practice filled with perfect routines or one that send us back to the drawing board... I always know that I will leave with a smile. Because at the end of the day I am blessed to be a part of such an inspirational organization filled with remarkable athletes and individuals. The memories and life lessons I have gained from being a part of this team are priceless and I can’t imagine how different my life would be without them.