BY BRANDY TEMPLETON

Special Olympics Iredell County held its Annual Donor Appreciation banquet at the Iredell County Agricultural Center on Monday evening.

The event brought together Special Olympic athletes, their families, volunteers, coaches, and others who support the program.

Bobbi Williams, local program coordinator, was excited about the opportunities that the 300 local athletes had access to in the past year. The Spring Games held at Statesville High School each year are “just the tip of the iceberg,” she said.

“They participate in three local events, and 46 participated at state-level events,” she said.

The program is a blessing for the athletes and the volunteer coaches, Williams said, encouraging others to get involved.

“If everybody had the opportunity to coach Special Olympic athletes, they would be so grateful,” she said.

Beyond coaching, the organization is appreciative of the community’s financial support of Special Olympics. Donations help cover the cost of training, lodging, transportation, and uniforms.

Tennis coach Margaret Johnson explained how much the investment helps.

“All the tennis athletes won at least one gold medal last year,” she said. “They have a sense of family, leadership, and independence because of the generosity.”

Food Lion was recognized at the Special Olympics Iredell County Business of the Year.

For the Tony Stikeleather Athlete of the Year, Tony’s three daughters, including Hannah Elsenboss, teamed up with athlete Chase Stroud to present the award to Preston Fox.

“He showed up offering encouraging words and smiles to both his teammates and opposing athletes,” Elsenboss said. “He is a friend to all.”

Fox always gives 100 percent and showed his commitment to the program by coming to every practice — even when he was recovering from a bad injury.

Fox said he was grateful for the award, and just wants to have fun.

“I’m happy,” he said.

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