This week, Young Athletes Summer Camp was held at Lipscomb University. The three-day camp provided health screenings, sports, dance, and fun to athletes ages ranging from three to seven. One athlete, Issac Jenkins, becomes a new member of our community at the camp.
Issac Jenkins, who is three and a half years old, attended his first Special Olympics Tennessee event this week. He spent his time at camp doing activities and playing sports with one of our volunteers, Ella. From playing baseball to completing the obstacle course, Issac had a smile on his face through it all. His mother, Kelly, was excited to get him involved with Special Olympics Tennessee and into sports like his older brother.
Kelly mentions that Isaac's older brother, Braden, is someone that Issac looks up to each day. Braden has been an athlete with Special Olympics Tennessee for almost ten years and traveled with Team Tennessee to USA Games last year. His passion for basketball is reflected in Isaac, who strives to be just like him. They share a love for basketball and are constantly practicing together in their free time.
Special Olympics Tennessee has become a place for Kelly and her children to stay involved in the community. She finds that the camps offered keep her busy and provide a place for her children to stay active in sports. Braden, 21, plays basketball for school as well as Special Olympics Tennessee. He is also involved in flag football and is continuously trying to find ways to be involved with the organization. As Issac’s journey with Special Olympics is just beginning, Kelly believes he will grow up to have the same passion for the organization as Braden does.
In the future, she hopes Issac and Braden are able to participate in Special Olympics together. Kelly notes that camps like this are unique because they have so much to offer. Not only are the athletes playing sports, but they are also gaining health screenings and learning new skills. Kelly hopes to continue their family's involvement with Special Olympics Tennessee, whether that be on a basketball team or in camps like Young Athletes Summer Camp.
