Special Olympics Rhode Island caps off another successful Summer Games

KINGSTON, R.I. (WLNE) — Over a thousand athletes gathered for the 2024 Rhode Island Special Olympics Summer Games at the University of Rhode Island over the weekend.

“This is the pinnacle of our sports and competition for the year for our athletes,” Ed Pacheco, President and CEO of Special Olympics Rhode Island, said.

The last day of competition featured swimming and powerlifting events, all representing much more than any tangible medal or result could quantify.

“[It] builds self-confidence, self-esteem, and determination out of all of us,” Andrew Tabachini, a Special Olympics athlete, said.

The impacts are palpable for anyone touched by the games, as Andrew’s mother, Charlotte Tabachini, explained.

“I love it, Special Olympics is my favorite entity in the world,” Tabachini said. “This is my favorite weekend of the year, next to Christmas.”

The contests were centered around an Olympic Village, offering many opportunities for athletes to interact, including a dance.

“It’s not just the competing,” Patty Carosotto, Head Coach of East Greenwich’s team, said. “It’s the connection that all of these athletes make with one another and all the teams.”

Over 1,500 volunteers, including law enforcement, helped to facilitate the special event.

“Not only do we see lives change out there on the court or the field,” Pacheco said. “But we change lives in our volunteers and all the fans in the stands.”