CCCDD clients participate in annual Day of Champions event

Published 7:50 am Saturday, July 21, 2012

With a tight grip on the yellow rope, several clients from the Cullman County Center for the Developmentally Disabled (CCCDD) pulled with all their might to get the blue piece of material back to their side.

Meanwhile, on the other end, several others fought to keep it on their side.

Despite the outcome, there were no losers in Friday’s tug of war competition at the annual Day of Champions held at the Miracle Field. Everyone was a winner.

“This day is all about letting them shine,” said Tiffany Wilson, assistant program coordinator of the CCCDD. “They love to get out and play, and it’s a day they enjoy that’s all about them.”

In addition to the tug of war competition, clients also participated in a water relay, base race, three-legged race, as well as enjoyed dunking people in the dunking booth, face painting, and a handful of other games. Each special needs student and individual received either a medal or ribbon after competing in each event, and was awarded prizes at each of the game stations. Volunteers from Wallace State Community College, and members of the Holly Pond boys and girls basketball teams assisted staff members from the CCCDD and the Golden Opportunity program in the days events.

“We really appreciate everyone who pitched in to help out today,” Wilson said. “We couldn’t have done it without them. I’m happy the weather cooperated.”

Taylor Rowell, a three sport athlete for Holly Pond, said it was nice taking a break from practice and team camp to help out.

“It really means a lot to be able to help because it reminds us not to take things for granted,” Rowell said. “And two, I think it means a lot to those enjoying today’s activities to see us out here.”

Friday marked the first time for the event to be held at the Field of Miracles. In past year’s, it’s been held at Wallace State Community College. Wilson said while planning, organizers decided to try out the new venue and see how it would go over.

“A lot of our clients love going over there, so we decided to try it out and see if it would easier for them to get around,” Wilson said. “From everything I’ve heard, everyone seemed to  have a good time, and that’s the most important thing.”

* Ashley Graves can be reached by phone at 734-2131, ext. 225, or by email at agraves@cullmantimes.com