Special Olympics

[Anchor Lead]

The Special Olympics are underway in Korea. It’s an opportunity for athletes with developmental disabilities to show off their athletic prowess. The goal of the event is to spread hope among athletes who face many challenges.

[Pkg]

It's more than 30 degrees hot outside, but these athletes look excited. They struggle to shoot and dribble the ball, but nothing makes them happier than playing soccer. The team members join hands to defend their gate, but the opponent eventually scores a goal. The team loses 1-0. But they are proud to have done their best as one team.

[Soundbite] Chang Yoo-jin(Soccer Team "Rainbow") : "Our coach said that she loves us."

These athletes from a welfare facility in Jeolla-do Province receive soccer training twice a week to keep fit and hone their social skills.

[Soundbite] Kim Soo-ok(Coach of Soccer Team "Rainbow") : "Competing as a team requires teamwork. By playing sports, the players learn how to cooperate and care about others."

Overcoming obstacles and staying on track is a challenge to them, but they all receive praise and encouragement regardless of the outcome. This is only possible at the Special Olympics. The Special Olympics, which marks its 13th anniversary this year, presents athletes with disabilities with opportunities to regain hope and confidence.