LA FERIA — Joseph Longoria was all smiles and dressed to impress.
His name was called to come in the front of the La Feria school board to receive an award for his bowling skills.
He and some of his teammates, who participated in the Area One Special Olympics Texas, were recognized for their efforts in bowling and basketball.
The games were held in La Feria on Jan. 25 in the school gym.
The students were recognized by the school board for their sportsmanship and athletic abilities.
Longoria had placed third in bowling at the tournament.
“We have the best of the best at the La Feria school district,” said Jessica Farias, Special Olympics teacher. “We have some hard working athletes this year that participated in bowling and basketball.”
Twenty 20 students participated in the Special Olympics bowling and basketball events.
According to Special Olympics Texas, the Motor Activities Training Program, MATP, is a great opportunity for children with disabilities to have fun and participate in the motor activities.
Participation is a key element that Area One strives to portray in its events provided throughout the Rio Grande Valley, and the MATP provides the opportunity for all individuals qualified for Special Olympics Texas to participate.
Lucero Velasquez also was awarded for coming in second place in both bowling and basketball.
Javier Lara placed third in basketball.
The two were also recognized at the school board meeting.
The next Special Olympics tournament will be track and field next month.
