Play it Forward to collect sports equipment for Special Olympics

By SARA GIBONEY
UNK Communications

KEARNEY – University of Nebraska at Kearney Student Government is asking the campus and community to Play it Forward.

During the Tuesday (Oct. 14) Loper volleyball game against Washburn, fans are asked to bring lightly used or new sports equipment. Those who donate will receive half off of their admission to the game.

The sports equipment will be donated to the Kearney Special Olympics.

“In providing sporting equipment, it gives our athletes the opportunity to try different sports that they haven’t tried before,” said Jennifer Behlmann, head coach for Kearney Special Olympics.

“This event brings awareness to the community that this program is available. It’s important for our athletes to feel like they’re no different than UNK athletes.”

Special Olympics athletes will attend the volleyball game.

“It’s a good opportunity for them to get into the community and meet people,” Behlmann added.

Sports offered through Special Olympics include bocce ball, soccer, swimming, bowling, volleyball, a softball throw, track and basketball. They also hope to start offering golf.

“It’s important to give back,” said Student Body President Connor Schulte. “We do a lot with special Olympics on campus, from Buddy Bowling to working with the Arc of Buffalo County. The Special Olympics has expressed a need for these items and we are happy to help them.”

Play it Forward was originally created by former student body president Cam Deter. But the project wasn’t carried on after he left office. Schulte hopes to make Play it Forward an ongoing project.

“Hopefully with this event we can get the word out about the program,” she said.

To engage students, a mini volleyball tournament took place Tuesday and Wednesday. Fifteen teams participated, and the top two will play between sets of the Tuesday’s Loper match.

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Source: Connor Schulte, 308.865.8523, schultec2@lopers.unk.edu
Writer: Sara Giboney, 308.865.8529, giboneys2@unk.edu