Students from 11 area schools will meet at Lincoln-Way Central High School on March 12 for the 9th Annual Special Games.

“The Special Games provide the athletes with a rare opportunity to compete against other area high schools while representing their own school with spirit and pride,” said Mary Harrison, special services coordinator for Lincoln-Way High School District 210. “It also allows the many student leaders and peer helpers assisting the competitors a valuable and memorable experience.”

Among the schools participating in this year’s Special Games are Andrew, Bolingbrook, Bradley-Bourbonnais, Joliet Township, Lincoln-Way Central, Lincoln-Way East, Lockport, Sandburg, Stagg, Lincoln-Way North and Lincoln-Way West high schools.

Students will compete in a variety of events, including a disc throw, target throw, beanbag toss, running sprints and dribbling. There also will be a football toss, ring toss and basketball hoop shoot.

“Our hope is that the athletes take away from that experience a feeling of accomplishment, fun and school pride and for the leaders as well as the entire student body we hope they develop a sense of appreciation, understanding and gratitude for those who offer something truly unique to this world,” said Maggie Jager, an adaptive P.E. teacher for Lincoln-Way District 210.

The games will begin with an opening ceremony at 9:30 a.m. in the field house at Lincoln-Way Central. Athletes will parade into the field house carrying a torch. They will gather by school in the bleachers and compete for a chance to take home the coveted Spirit Stick, which is awarded to the school that shows the most school spirit.

Lincoln-Way Central currently holds the Spirit Stick.

Submitted by Lincoln-Way High School District 210