Student volunteers at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota welcomed Special Olympic athletes to their campus for Camp Shriver the week of June 9-13, 2025.
Camp Shriver, in partnership with Special Olympics Florida, brought together student volunteers and athletes for a week of friendship, inclusion, and sports. This is the second year Cardinal Mooney hosted the camp, with this year bringing together double the number of athletes and student volunteers.
The week-long camp kicked off June 9, with an opening ceremony. Erin Foster, of Special Olympics Florida, praised Cardinal Mooney for being a host for the camp which allows the athletes to participate in a number of activities while also making lasting friendships.
Liz Chappell, a Cardinal Mooney teacher and camp leader, was overjoyed with how many student volunteers gave up a week of summer vacation to participate.
“These amazing students stepped up because they want their volunteer work to matter,” Chappell said. “Everyone is ready to have fun and make lasting memories.”
On the first morning, the students and athletes went out to one of the sports fields to play a variety of games. From tossing frisbees and footballs, playing volleyball, or showing off dance moves, smiles abounded and laughter was heard across the field.
“This is great,” one Special Olympian exclaimed. “This is the best,” said another.
As the week progressed, the campers participated in athletic drills and games with Cardinal Mooney athletes in soccer, volleyball, lacrosse, football, softball, basketball and cheer. No matter the skill level, everyone had fun.
Cardinal Mooney junior Ethan Ruben said helping the campers “make friendships and grow their motor skills and just build bonds with people is really important and I get joy out of it.”
Chappell said the school will participate in additional outreach in support of Special Olympics during the coming school year as the partnership exemplifies what it means to be a Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School student.
