Thursday, July 12, 2007

Bound for Training Camp


Five Special Olympics Alaska athletes and one coach headed for training camp August 11. Camp gives the athletes a chance to meet coaches and other members of Team USA. Training at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee will help athletes prepare for World Games in Shanghia, China.

Special O staffers Jim Balamaci and Nicolle Egan briefed the athletes on what to expect: excessive heat, lots of people, new friends, meetings with coaches, a visit with Jo Dee Messina, and more.

Athletes were urged to drink lots of water, get to know coaches and speak up if they need anything during the trip. Nicolle and Jim reminded team members that Alaska athletes have set high standards and they have a reputation to uphold. SO-AK athletes are known for their excellent sportsmanship, gracious manners and commitment to training. Alaska hosted World Winter Games in 2001, so our athletes and coaches are known around the world for setting the pace and being great role models.

Pictured in the team photo (left to right) are coach Sam Brown, Robert "Bobby" Hill, Melanie Flowers, Jeremy Hartman, Trishia Hoadley and Whitney Davis.

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