A group of Special Education students recently represented San Benito CISD at the 2017 Special Olympics Texas Winter Games in Austin, Texas.
Proudly representing San Benito High School and San Benito Veterans Memorial Academy, San Benito’s athletes participated in the bowling competition and collectively brought home 11 awards, including a silver and bronze medal.
The 2017 bowling competition results were the following:
San Benito High School
• Luis Andrade, 5th Place
• Juan David Garcia, Bronze Medal
• Alexandria Hernandez, 7th Place
• Josue Hernandez, 6th Place
• Amanda Lopez, 4th Place
• Janet Morales, 6th Place
• Miranda Reyna, 4th Place
• Amanda Sierra, Silver Medal
• Greg Vargas, 7th Place
• Stephanie Zamora, 5th Place
San Benito Veterans Memorial Academy
• Billy Jo Vela, 5th Place
The local coaching staff that accompanied the athletes to the Winter Games is comprised of Special Olympics/Adaptive Physical Education Coordinator Rick Tamez and coaches Davis Ezell, Jesus Zuñiga, Ricky Rodriguez, Ofelia Owens, Maria Cisneros, Cindy Puente, Belinda Perez, and Omar Carvajal.
Tamez explains that there are high expectations for Special Olympics athletes that participate in competitive sports at the state level. “They have worked so hard to take it to next level of competition, and it has paid off for them,” said Tamez.
“I would like to congratulate our bowling athletes for an outstanding job competing at the state level,” he added.
Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) is a privately funded non-profit organization that changes lives through the power of sport by encouraging and empowering people with intellectual disabilities, promoting acceptance for all, and fostering communities of understanding and respect.
Committed to the Special Olympics motto, “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt,” the local Special Olympics Program empowers special education students to become physically fit, productive, and respected members of society through sports training and competition.
“I would like to congratulate all of our student athletes that participated in the state bowling competition for their hard work and dedication. I would also like to thank all the coaches for everything that they do for our students,” said Ernesto Manriquez, Director of Special Education.
For additional information on the school district’s Special Olympics program and initiatives, contact Tamez at 956-361-6221.
