Anyone can be an Athlete

picture found in the NWCSRA website

By: Elvia Cardenas 

The world is becoming a more diverse and open-minded place; especially in the world of sports. Athletes aren’t the stereotypical jocks from high school anymore, today they come in all shapes and sizes.  Now everyone can be welcomed into the sports world because of places like Northern Will County Special Recreation Association (NWCSRA).  They help people with special needs get into the heart of the community through their many programs, most of them having to do with sports.  They have everything from sensory room experiences to competitions in Special Olympics. 

NWCSRA is a local organization with partnerships with the Bolingbrook, Plainfield, Romeoville, and Lockport Park Districts. Guests can come in and participate in community events that range anything from Music theater to swimming class.  These events can be found on NWCSRA’s webpage under the calendars page. 

However, NWCSRA’s main goal is to get people with special needs to have a part in their community. NWCSRA offers sports teams like floor hockey, basketball, soccer, powerlifting, and many more that can be found on their website. Right now their Co-ed volleyball team is being active with games almost every week. 

Although the games do appear to be friendly and fun, they are competitive. Most athletes are there to participate in the Special Olympics.  If athletes and/or teams place first in a competition they will represent their community in State Special Olympics. From there they have a chance to make it big and get their name in shining lights, as it is anyone's game.