Playing in unity with Special Olympics Kentucky

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Kentucky Special Olympics teams hit the court at Rupp Arena Wednesday night, but they weren’t alone. Some familiar faces joined their teams.

It’s a familiar court for solid blue fans. It’s one several Special Olympics athletes have always dreamt of playing on.

“Oh my goodness, this feels amazing,” said Dallas Derrinzer, Special Olympics Athlete Ambassador. “I never dreamed I’d be able to do this.”

The first two games of the night were just between the Olympic teams. Then, the Lexington Wildcats and the Northern Kentucky Wildcats took the floor at the home of the UK Wildcats, for the second annual “Blue-White, Unified” game.

“Unified is a growing program in Special Olympics, where we take Special Olympics athletes and we bring in persons without intellectual disabilities and they play on the same teams together,” said Trish Mazzoni, Special Olympics Kentucky Director.

Athletes were joined by former UK basketball players, Kentucky legislators and several others.

Legendary UK player Jack “Goose” Givens was an honorary coach. For him, the best part is watching the athletes putting their all on the court.

They are truly gifted,” said Givens. “They understand now more than ever their limitations, but they don’t let that stop them from coming out and trying to play as hard as they can.”

Special Olympics Kentucky is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Mazzoni says this game represents progress the program has made.

“When I look at where we were in 1968, persons with intellectual disabilities were shunned, they were secluded, not included in anything,” said Mazzoni. “50 years later, we’re playing unified on Rupp Arena’s floor and everybody loves it.”

The Lexington Wildcats took home the win, 38 to 27. However, at the end of the day, it was all about having fun.