Players and coaches from football, men's golf, cheerleading, women's soccer, volleyball, and women's basketball assisted in different roles to help the event, a first-ever at the Penn Activity Center, run smoothly. Several of the teams ran competitions, while others escorted players and handed out awards in addition to other responsibilities.

Some of the events in which the athletes competed included the standing and running long jumps, softball toss, several wheelchair races, and numerous running and walking events.

"The Special Olympics ran perfectly due to the great volunteers," Special Olympics Organizer Karen Hafner said. "Many William Penn coaches and their teams, William Penn students, local organizations, and community members gave up their time. They put in a great effort to make that day special for a lot of kids."

"The response from the community and William Penn was overwhelming to the point that we had to turn many volunteers away," Hafner added. "I can't even begin to tell about all the positive comments we have received from the participating teams and their fans. We had a great time and many volunteers thanked us for allowing them to help and wanted to be involved next year. Thank you to all the volunteers; you are what makes Oskaloosa a great place to live!"

"I cannot say enough about the dedication from the event coordinators, volunteers, PAC staff and the William Penn University student-athletes," Penn Activity Center Director Chad Rodgers said. "All of the participants I spoke with commented on how wonderful and well organized these Southeast Iowa District Special Olympic games were. The PAC facility served as a fantastic venue - and our volunteers went above and beyond to ensure a successful event, including cheering for and dancing with the Special Olympic athletes. Truly a heart-warming and energy-filled event for the city of Oskaloosa and William Penn University to host and take part in."

To learn more about the Special Olympics, click here