The Rotary Club of Marietta served as sponsor of the event , continuing a partnership that has been part of the Adapted Games since their beginning. Rotary members were also on hand throughout the day, including volunteers who helped serve lunch to students, teachers and volunteers.

From the moment students arrived, they were welcomed with cheers and celebration. Opening ceremonies included participation from Marietta High School students, and throughout the morning teachers, student volunteers and community volunteers helped participants move between activities and enjoy a field day created especially for them. The Marietta Daily Journal described a field filled with “smiles and cheers” as students enjoyed the Games.

But the day was about much more than athletics.

Students participated in a variety of adapted activities designed to make the experience accessible and enjoyable for students of different abilities. Events included the 100-yard dash, hurdles, soccer, bowling, modified shot put, javelin and discus, along with activities such as cornhole, an obstacle course and cup stacking. A special “Press and Play” station also provided switch-adapted activities for students whose motor, sensory or cognitive needs made participation in some of the other events more challenging.

For our club, the Adapted Games represent what Service Above Self looks like close to home.

The Games were created to provide students with exceptional needs an event of their own—one where activities can be adapted to meet students where they are and every participant has an opportunity to experience the excitement of a school wide athletic celebration. Marietta City Schools describes the event as an opportunity for exceptional students to “shine, play, and feel the power of the community’s support.”

That sense of community could be seen throughout the day.

Rotarians joined Marietta City Schools teachers and staff, Marietta High School student groups and other community volunteers in creating an environment centered on inclusion, encouragement and fun. The result was a day in which every student had an opportunity to participate in a way that was meaningful for them.

For the Rotary Club of Marietta, sponsoring the Adapted Games is more than supporting an event. It is an opportunity to stand alongside our schools, celebrate every student and help create a community where everyone has an opportunity to belong and participate.

We are grateful to Marietta City Schools, the educators and staff who make this event possible, the Marietta High School students who volunteered, and everyone who helped create such a memorable day for these students.