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HARTINGTON — Coaches often say it's not about winning or losing, it's about how you play the game.
Judging from the smiles on the 'Cats Dash contestants' faces, it's easy to see the truth in that statement.
The event, which was held this year at the Hartington Community Complex in conjunction with a junior high track meet, was developed last year by Hartington- Newcastle Family, Career and Community Leaders of America students McKenzie Bruning and Maddie Steffen with the help of their advisor, Kelsey Schumacher.
Bruning said the event is designed for students 'who usually aren’t included in extracurricular activities in school. These students might have a disability, which prevents them from competing.
'Our main message we wanted to get across was inclusion,” Bruning said.
Travis and Raechel Folkers son, 16-yearold Greyson, really enjoyed the day.
'It is a great event, the goal is to have a low pressure day of activities to participate in, and celebrate their own personal achievements,' Raechel Folkers said. 'Greyson looks forward to it. He was excited about it in the days leading up and was excited to share how the day went with his classmates and teachers.'
Folkers said she is pleased with the way the school has always tried to help their son.
'HNPS has always been proactive in Greyson's needs and finding ways to include him,' she said.
This year's meet featured nine students competing in everything from the softball throw, long jump and soccer kick, as well as races and hurdles, Schumacher said.
Schumacher said all indications were that it was indeed a big hit.
'We received lots of praise from teachers and students,' she said.
The student helpers also had a lot of fun, Schumacher said.
'Students had big smiles on their faces,' she said.
Schumacher said she would like to see the event continue on well into the future, even though its orginators graduated this year.
'We plan to continue this. It's a good event for all involved,' she said.
Folkers would love to see it continue. 'It's great to be able to celebrate the efforts of kids with disabilities. Many people take for granted the basic ability to walk, jump, throw and run. Many of these kids are expending tremendous physical and mental energy each day trying to achieve a 'normal' level of activity that comes naturally to other kids. It's a great day for celebrating their efforts and the inclusive environment that is Hartington Newcastle Public School.
