Credit: Tony Pisaneschi

Special Olympics athletes begin their day of festivities with a group photo at Cleveland State University, Oct. 7, 2026.

Athletes excel at fall Special Olympics

250 athletes from 13 local schools took part in a variety of competitions at the annual fall event hosted by Cleveland State University.

By TONY PISANESCHI - posted October 16, 2026

Some 250 athletes from 13 local schools competed at the fall Special Olympics hosted by Cleveland State University at Krenzler Field, Oct. 7.

The competitors took part in fencing, lacrosse, soccer, football, agility and jumping drills. They spent 10 minutes at each station, rotating through all 10 stations.

While sporting events took place on the field, games and other activities were set up on the tarmac for the athletes to enjoy.

Athletes play board games on the tarmac, Oct. 7, at the Special Olympics. (Credit: Tony Pisaneschi) — Athletes play board games on the tarmac, Oct. 7, at the Special Olympics.
(Credit: Tony Pisaneschi)

Games and activities on the tarmac included Connect Four, cornhole, bocce ball, miniature bowling and coloring.

Dr. Joanna DeMarco, organizer of the event, said it is important to put on these types of events not only for the athletes, but for the volunteers as well.

“This provides a great opportunity for us to come together and help those who often don't have access or opportunities to recreational activities and sports,” DeMarco said. “It’s an all-around great experience that the volunteers and athletes walk away from gaining a lot.”

CSU graduate assistant Noah Gottschling said volunteering was important because it allowed him to give back to the community.

“It’s important to serve the community and get the people together, especially for a good cause like this,” said Gottschling.

Athletes and volunteers pose after the conclusion of the soccer drill at the Special Olympics, Oct. 7.
(Credit: Tony Pisaneschi)

Gottschling said it was impressive to see how quickly the athletes could apply what they learned during the drills.

“It’s rewarding to see them take what we’ve taught them and instantly apply it to what they’re doing,” Gottschling said.

An athlete shows off his football skills by throwing to the target at the Special Olympics, Oct. 7. (Credit: Tony Pisaneschi) — An athlete shows off his football skills by throwing to the target at the Special Olympics, Oct. 7.
(Credit: Tony Pisaneschi)

Jess David, a teacher at Lakewood High School, said the event was “amazing” and meant a lot to not only the kids, but also their families.

"The kids were really excited when we told them we were coming here,” David said. “But the parents always tell us that this is all the kids talk about when they get home after being here.”

CSU has hosted Special Olympics events in the spring and fall for the past five years. The event is part of a partnership with Special Olympics and the City of Cleveland, which will host the 2030 Special Olympics USA Games.