KMC Spring Special Olympics back in full swing

by Senior Airman Hailey Haux
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

5/13/2014 - RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- Athletes gathered from all around the Kaiserslautern Military Community on an overcast spring morning. As the dark clouds rolled in, a line formed as registration began and the athletes found their buddies for the day.

Over the loud speaker a voice could be heard directing people to stand in the center of the soccer field so the opening ceremony could begin. As the German and American national anthems were sung, everyone kept silent, paying their respects to their countries.

After the national anthems played, the 2014 KMC Spring Special Olympics were once again underway May 9 at Pulaski Park, Vogelweh after being discontinued for approximately three years.

"This event was held back in 2011 and prior and was hosted by the Army Garrison but due to budget constraints they were no longer able to host the Spring Special Olympics," said Melody Tice-Baird, Special Olympics event coordinator. "I took it upon myself to try and recreate this special event for our German and American athletes here in Kaiserslautern."

This year's Special Olympics consisted of events such as track and field, soccer, volleyball, basketball, softball, arts and crafts and karaoke; there were also non-competitive events for children ages five to seven who weren't able compete yet according to the rules.

"We are out here to teach the athletes a little bit about the game," said Master Sgt. Nick Palmer, 37th Airlift Squadron and Special Olympics soccer event coordinator. "It's a really good opportunity for us to give them the chance of feeling great. We helped them practice their dribbling skills, gave them the opportunity to make goals, which always feels good, and helped them with their passing skills. I can't think of a better way to spend a Friday than to give these athletes a day they truly deserve."

With more than 100 athletes and 250 volunteers, this event was all about making the athletes happy.

"For one day they can forget that they can't walk or they can't talk or they can't function right. For one day they get to participate and win something, get awards and have a great time. It's just that gift of giving that is so significant about this event," said Tice-Baird. "It doesn't matter what we run into during the day or if we forget something small. As long as these athletes walk away with a big smile on their face, ribbons on their shirt and a medal around their neck, we did our job."

To be able to volunteer for this event by giving athletes tips and tricks, events like this really hit home for some.

"This is an event that is pretty special to me," said Palmer. "My son is mildly autistic with Asperger's Syndrome and a sensory processing disorder. I know that it takes a community effort to give a child who is challenged the support they need to overcome and flourish as much as possible. To give back to the community in an event such as this is the best we can do for the people who do so much for us."

As the sun came out and lunch was served, Pulaski Park was filled with smiling faces and the sound of playful banter between the athletes.

"I had so much fun playing soccer, basketball, and volleyball," said Johnny Karaca, son of retired Army Metin Karaca, and athlete. "I hit a homerun."

As the 2014 KMC Spring Special Olympics came to a close, hitting homeruns, scoring goals and making baskets all resulted in every single athlete having the chance to get up on the podium and receive a medal to wear proudly and show off to their friends and family.