Gallery • 10 Photos

Avery Franks

Waiting for the Fall Classic to begin, sophomore Cole Bonbrest, senior Isacc Rodrigues and sophomore Jack Morantes talk about Panther Gold’s strategy in the upcoming games Sept. 22 at Plant High School in Mary Beth Radigan’s classroom. Athletes and partners gathered in the gym to watch sports ranging from weight lifting to cheer.

Special Olympics athletes and partners have been practicing since this school year began for the Fall Classic hosted by Plant Sept. 22. All of the teams that came to the Fall Classic were from around the county. The event was put on by Mary Beth Radigan, sponsor of Special Olympics. 

“The fall classic was super fun, this was my first competition,” sophomore partner Jack Morantes said. “We all played really well, and I am excited for the year ahead.”  

This year’s Fall Classic is the first competition of many for Special Olympics. The competing teams were the cheerleading team, the Pawprints and the two flag football teams, Gold and Black, with the event beginning 7 a.m. and ending at 4 p.m. Events that were held were softball, weightlifting, cheer and flag football. Plant’s teams all placed first in their divisions and are going to States in Orlando Nov. 11.