There was something special about this Olympic event

The team from Gaffney High School breaks the huddle during Wednesday's Special Olympics basketball tournament at Limestone College. The chances may be slim for any of the students participating in Wednesday's annual 5-on-5 basketball tournament at Limestone College to have the opportunity to sign a million dollar contract or make regular appearances on TV.

While the students may never realize goals reached by the professional athletes they look up to, there is something participants in the tournament can claim that their idols can't - an undefeated record.

More than 100 students from teams in Cherokee and Spartanburg counties participated in the tournament, the first of two annual competitions sponsored by the Special Olympics. Track and field events will be held in May at Gaffney Middle School.

Depending on their performance during these games, participants can qualify for the state meet in Columbia.

Held since early last decade, the basketball tournament has been one of the more popular events for participants of all ages.

"It is seriously a joy to watch," event coordinator Charlotte Hartman said. "These kids have been looking forward to this for a number of months and love having the opportunity to compete."

Eight to 10 teams took the court during the tournament, with each having the opportunity to play three games. A cheerleading competition was also part of the event.

Every participant walked away with an award of some kind, whether it be the medals handed out following the tournament or the smiles seen on a number of their faces.

"They are having so much fun. It just makes you laugh to know these kids are enjoying themselves so much," Hartman said. "Their smiles and laughter make you enjoy this a lot more."

The day was built primarily to suit the recreational and physical fitness needs of the students participating. However, students in Limestone College's physical education program found the tournament to be a life-changing experience as well.

"It was pretty fun to be out there with these kids," Limestone College junior Jordan Parkins said. "It showed me a lot about what they go through, and how they still find ways to enjoy themselves in spite of their ailment. I wish everyone would get the chance to experience something like this."

Every year students from the college volunteer to help with the event, serving as referees and scorekeepers in addition to the number of other services needed during the tournament.

According to Limestone College physical education professor Dr. Albert Spencer, getting involved with the Special Olympics sometimes lays the groundwork for a future in the arena of community service.

"A lot of these students are student-athletes themselves. Events like this merely help them apply the things they have learned," Spencer said. "Through the years, many of my students have taken their experience at this event and translated it into a career."