Not everyone could run fast, jump high or throw far — but at this athletic event, every single competitor was a star.
Today’s third annual “Invitational Field Day” at Natomas High offered special-needs students a full slate of competitive events and paired them with Nighthawk “buddies,” volunteer helpers, for a feel-good, smile-on-every-face type of day.
Nearly 300 special-needs students from Natomas Unified, Twin Rivers, San Juan and Center school districts competed for ribbons, but in the end there were no losers – everybody won, everybody got a medal, everybody shined.
Events ranged from wheelchair races to bean bag toss, bowling ball roll, and numerous running or walking events. Something for everyone. Special-needs students from middle school to adult transitional classes enjoyed the competition, their buddies, and each other.
“Making new friends,” said Ayleen, 18, when asked what she hoped to gain from Invitational Field Day.
Savitri, 19, signed up for the tennis ball throw, javelin, long jump and 100-meter dash. But winning wasn’t her primary goal, she said. “It’s about having fun.”
Nineteen-year-old Victor had a different view – sure, camaraderie is fine, but “I want to win,” he said.
Stacy Hickel, an organizer of the event and an NUSD staffer who assists special-needs students with physical education, said a key goal of Field Day is to build community among general education and special-needs students.They leave understanding each other better.
“I think all the kids are in the spotlight,” she said, meaning both athletes and volunteer buddies. “It’s give and take on both sides … You never know what lives you’ll touch today, and what they’ll take away from this.”
Natomas High’s volunteer “buddies” cheered the athletes on, pushed wheelchairs, and did whatever needed to make the day special. More than 300 Nighthawks signed up to help.
Aisha Aslam said she volunteered because “I heard from previous students that this is really exciting and fun and fulfilling, so I decided to do it,” she said.
“I definitely think I’ll get some new friends out of this,” she added.
