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Firefighters, Special Olympians teaming for basketball exhibition
The Richmond Firefighters Association has a
long history of extending helping hands. This weekend members welcome the
opportunity to do so again.
In the first of what organizers hope becomes
an annual event, 14 firefighters are confirmed to share the spotlight with 28
local Special Olympics athletes Sunday (Oct. 14) in the inaugural basketball
exhibition at the Richmond Olympic Oval.
Firefighters will play alongside Special
Olympians in a series of full-court scrimmage games tipping off at 3 p.m. There
will be four 20-minute games through 4:35 p.m., followed by photos and a
wind-up celebration.
Firefighter Chris Vanderwel is heading up the
organizing committee.
“The Richmond Firefighters Association’s idea
to support the Richmond Special Olympics is (the result of) a collaborative
conversation about investing in our community, athletics, and supporting
athletes with intellectual disabilities,” explains Vanderwel. “Along with our
Richmond Firefighters Charitable Society, our organization has supported
Richmond Special Olympics in the past. This event is now another opportunity
for us to engage with these inspirational athletes.”
The Richmond Firefighters Association is
committed to serving its community, and greatly values respect and inclusion
for all. Its sponsorship of this event allows free admission and participation
for all Richmond Special Olympics athletes and their families.
“Our shared goal is to make this an
inclusive, fun, family-oriented event,” says Vanderwel. “To make this event an
annual success, we need to get the word out to the community to come and be a
part of this amazing experience. We see this event growing by involving our community
alongside the athletes and firefighters.”
Vanderwel says members of the Richmond
Firefighters Association are thankful for the support from the Richmond Olympic
Oval to use the space.
“Without support of great facilities like
this, our events cannot happen,” he says. “And future corporate involvement is
important to provide opportunities and events for Richmond Special Olympics
athletes.”
“This will be an awesome event with athletes
and their families cheering on from the stands,” promises Vanderwel.
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