“Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

This is the Athlete Oath that each athlete and coach said before competing in the State Special Olympics Championships held in the Northland .

This year’s state basketball championship brought more than 1,400 athletes and coaches to the Kansas City area. The opening ceremony was on Friday and the games were played on Sat. March 19. Teams played five-on-five or three-on-three.

Many schools such as Oak Park, Winnetonka, Park Hill South, Staley and the Kansas City Police Academy held games in their gyms. Many coaches and students who attended were honored to have participated held it because of what the Special Olympics represent.

“Through 21 year-round sports, Special Olympics Missouri offers children and adults with mental disabilities training and competition divisioned by age and ability,” says somo.org.

“We’re more than sports, however, our program gives athletes the confidence and skills to hold jobs, get better grades and earn respect. We provide an opportunity for every individual to feel accepted and appreciated,” adds the website.

Dinner and lunch was provided for the players and coaches. Also every year a Cholly Sportsmanship Award is given to one team per divisions. The scholarship is determined by officials and the volunteers in each gym.