Trapper Hughes is a twenty-year-old Senior who has been participating in Special Olympics since first grade, Cash Boston is a fifteen-year-old eighth grader who has participated for four years, and Lani Woodson is a seventeen-year-old eleventh grader who has participated for eight years.
Pitzer told the Beacon that there are currently six students participating from Canute, and a few more students are waiting for their physicals to be completed so they can qualify for the program.
Pitzer was a teacher with Sayre Public Schools before transferring to Canute.
“Canute had not participated in Special Olympics before, but they were excited to let me start the program. Our students play summer sports, wheelchair racing, Bocce Ball, and other events,” stated Pitzer.
Last Saturday’s bowling event showed that although some players bowled very well, it wasn’t necessary to achieve a high score to have a great time. There were wheelchair ramps to allow those who cannot walk to play, and coaches assisted with setting the ball up to be rolled down the lane. The players were competitive but very encouraging towards each other. It was inspiring to see that coaches and volunteers made sure everyone was entitled to play despite their physical limitations.
There were teams from schools throughout the area competing in Mustang, and Pitzer explained that teams must participate in local events in order to proceed to state events in Stillwater.
Three Canute Students, Trapper Hughes, Cash Boston, and Lani Woodson participated in a Special Olympics bowling event hosted by Bronco Bowl in Mustang on October 20th.
Canute Public Schools teacher Hollie Pitzer has been coaching for the Special Olympics for 21 years. Pitzer stated that most of the funding for the events comes from fundraisers, donations, and sponsorship.