Team Kentucky Ramps Up for Training Camp
The 45 athletes and 18 coaches who make up Team Kentucky for the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games are eagerly anticipating their next step in the journey to Seattle for the Games. That step comes March 16-18 when Team Kentucky gathers as a complete group for the first time at USA Games Training Camp. The Training Camp will once again be held in Lexington and is designed to help athletes and coaches get to know each other before heading off to competition.
Athletes will check in on Friday night at the team hotel, where they will have snacks and activities to help start the team bonding process. On Saturday, every team will take part in a practice session at a venue in Lexington, giving teams an additional practice time and individual athletes and coaches time to work together in many cases for the first time. Also on Saturday, each athlete and coach will be fitted for uniforms and the gear they will wear during the Games.
The team will have dinner together and participate in an activity on Saturday night.
Sunday morning includes a parents meeting before athletes return home.
“We have found the Training Camp experience to be a great step as we get ready for USA Games,” said Team Kentucky Head of Delegation Kim Satterwhite. “It gives us our only chance to simulate the feel of the Games with athletes staying on their own with their teammates and coaches and gives the team a chance to bond. It gives everybody confidence that they are ready to compete and really helps us focus on the Games experience when we get to Seattle.”
Training Camp is the second official Team Kentucky activity since the team was named in July. The coaching staff came together in October to begin planning for the Games.
The 2018 USA Games will bring together more than 4,000 athletes and coaches representing all 50 states and the District of Columbia to compete in 14 Olympic-type team and individual sports. Thousands of volunteers and spectators will also be a part of the Games. The 2018 Special Olympics USA Games will celebrate the Special Olympics movement and its 50th anniversary; promote the ideals of acceptance and inclusion through sport; and showcase athletes from throughout the U.S. and the abilities of people with intellectual disabilities. The 2018 USA Games will also highlight Special Olympics’ work in sport, education, health and community-building.
For more information about how you can support the Team Kentucky effort, contact Trish Mazzoni, President and CEO at 502-695-8222 or [email protected].