The Special Olympics team competed at the Krum meet on April 23. The team brought home many medals and placed in track, field events, and softball. Having competed in five total meets, the team will wrap up their season at their final meet at the end of May.

“The accomplishment of working hard and trying to win – that’s what makes Special Olympics so great,” head special olympics coach Denise Yeatts said.

The athletes brought home many accomplishments, including Yeatts’ eighth grade son, David Logan, who placed second in the 4×4 relay, and third in the mini javelin and 100 meter dash.

“Track is awesome,” Logan said. “I like seeing my friends and running.”

While seven members of the team represented Argyle at the Krum meet, the team is composed of 10 members ranging from elementary school to adults.

“Besides the social aspect that they get from seeing each other,” Yeatts said, “they get more self confidence from getting medals and doing a good job.”

Logan participated in North West’s program since he was eight. However, last year the school would not allow him to be on the team.

“It was disappointing, and he was very upset,” Yeatts said. “It is his one thing that he does.”

Yeatts was determined to keep the joy her son had experienced and share it with others. She presented the idea to Superintendent Telena Wright and received the program’s approval.

“Everyone is always excited,” Yeatts said. “No one judges you. No one puts you down. It’s a nice, positive atmosphere for these athletes.”

The team participated in bowling and basketball earlier this season, but Yeatts appreciates the diversity in the track program.

“They’ve had more fun competing in the meets because there is more they can do,” Yeatts said. “There is something for everyone in track.”

Although Yeatts is the only coach, she received help throughout the season from parent volunteers, students, and the Young Men’s Service League of Argyle, a mother and sons group. The team practiced twice a week.

“It was basically one on on,” Yeatts said. “I would tell each volunteer what to work on, and they would help train one of the athletes.”

Special Olympics also hosts other events that Yeatts hopes to introduce into Argyle’s program.

“I want to bring the Young Athletes program to Argyle for those kids who are seven years or younger,” Yeatts said. “There’s also a program called Unified Sports that pairs regular ed. kids with special ed. kids to form a team for football, baseball, or basketball, and then they compete with other unified teams.”

The team has received encouragement throughout the season, such as Challenge Day Club sponsor and teacher Jeanna Sutton holding a pep rally and students hanging up posters in the hallways.

“Even a high five in the hall is encouragement,” Yeatts said. “Everyone is welcome to meets to cheer people on. They like to be noticed, and they like their medals.”