Hundreds of Mater Dei students gathered on Saturday, Mar. 28, for the annual Special Games Outreach, uniting student volunteers and with special needs for a campus-wide event centered on inclusion, connection, and service.

Founded in 1985, Special Games Outreach has become a longstanding tradition on campus, offering students the opportunity to partner with athletes and support them through a series of outdoor events. For Mater Dei students who participate, it’s an event that sticks with them.

The event began at 9:00 a.m., as students were paired with their assigned athletes. Throughout the morning, participants rotated through activities such as face painting, football toss, relay races, etc., while volunteers cheered, guided, and engaged with their partners. For senior Xavier Palmares, the outreach brings him joy and fosters a genuine connection with his athlete/buddy.

“The most meaningful part was building a connection with my buddy and seeing the joy on everyone’s faces,” Palmares said. “It was super exciting and fun.” 

The bond between the athlete and the student volunteer is what makes the Special Games a unique experience for everyone involved. Junior Collin Kennedy realizes that small actions can make a huge impact.

“There was a moment when I slowed down and realized no one was distracted by their phones,” Kennedy said. “Everyone was just being themselves and not worrying about what was going on outside of the games. It was just pure fun.”

Palmares emphasizes that the impact of the Special Games lies in the relationships formed throughout the event, leaving participants feeling changed in a meaningful way. He learns that his selflessness can make a difference within the community. 

“It’s one of the only days where we can shift focus away from ourselves and become truly selfless,” Palmares said. “It changes your perspective and makes you realize the impact you can have on someone else for just being there for them to cheer them on.”

In addition to supporting the athletes, the event unites Mater Dei students from different grade levels. Volunteers come together to build a campus-wide connection.

“The event was genuine, and I felt that with every interaction I had [that day],” Kennedy said. “I think that’s the entire reason we put on Special Games every year.”

The Special Games Outreach reflects Mater Dei’s commitment to service, encouraging students to practice compassion and selflessness. It reinforces the motto of Honor, Glory, Love, emphasizing excellence not only in athletics and academics, but also in serving others.

“The event was huge and really showed why I am proud to be at Mater Dei,” Palmares said. “Not many high schools can make this happen, and the fact that so many people participated made me feel part of a community that is making a difference.”