BOSTON, Mass. – Last weekend, the Wentworth athletics community partnered with the Special Olympians of Boston Public Schools for a one-day soccer clinic hosted at Sweeney Field.

Throughout the day, Wentworth student-athletes worked together while demonstrating leadership and comprehensive learning to a group of 30 Special Olympians through passing drills, scrimmages, and shooting challenges.

Wentworth's partnership with the Special Olympics, which officially launched in August of 2011, is part of the NCAA Division IIII initiative, and serves to improve the lives of Special Olympians through their involvement with DIII student-athletes. "It really hits home to see how much our contributions mean to the Olympians," said men's soccer junior Noah Niles. "They inspire us as much as we inspire them."

The partnership additionally fosters a mutual learning experience, as Wentworth student-athletes helped to provide a platform for recognition of Special Olympians while raising awareness about the Special Olympics and the programs it provides. Danielle Dinoia, a senior on the Wentworth women's soccer team described the event as, "…an incredible opportunity to see all of our student-athletes come together and put on such a special event. The kids were full of excitement and it was so fulfilling to see them enjoy playing a game that we love."

Student-athletes giving back to their local (and often national and international) communities not only adds to the comprehensive learning component of Division III, but also provides a venue for passion and service. "The positive attitude the Special Olympians carry with them is contagious, creating a fun environment for anyone involved," said men's ice hockey junior Jake Hallisey.

Since 2011, the Wentworth athletics department and Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) have worked tirelessly to host at least two Special Olympics events a year. 

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Special Olympics 2020