Members of the Augusta Stars are gearing up for the state Special Olympic summer games.
More than 2,000 athletes, coaches and unified partners from around Georgia will travel to Emory University in Atlanta May 16-18 to compete in events such as cheerleading, swimming, gymnastics, flag football, soccer, table tennis, tennis and volleyball.
“They are very serious, very driven,” said Aaron Sapp, who coaches seven adults on the Stars volleyball team.
Over the past few summers, that drive has led the volleyball team to bring home several medals from the games. Sapp said he has to remind them sometimes to have fun as well.
Stars’ member Cindy Isbell said she’s looking forward to the upcoming games. She participates with the group most of the year.
“I like doing the different sports. I like being with friends and going to different place like Valdosta and Savannah different places to do the sports,” said Isbell who also enjoys being able to help other members of her team.
Teammate Robert White said he also enjoys the camaraderie among the athletes.
“I like being around other people,” he said.
While he will be playing volleyball this go-round, White’s favorite sport is played during the winter games.
“I like bowling best,” he said.
The Augusta Stars program is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Charmain Z. Brackett, the publisher of Augusta Good News and Inspiring: Women of Augusta, has covered Augusta’s news for more than 35 years. Reach her at charmain@augustagoodnews.com. Sign up for the newsletter here.
