WHITEWATER, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater hosted the Special Olympics Summer Games for the first time this past weekend.
More than 1,400 athletes competed in soccer, powerlifting, track and field, tennis and cornhole. The Milwaukee Blackhawks Special Olympics soccer team were competing for the championship.
Efren Alba is a sports enthusiast who plays for the Blackhawks as a forward. Efren’s sister, Josefina Alba, said soccer plays a very important role in Efren’s life.
“For him, it is very important. It is very important for him to get support from somebody, family member, friends,” said Josefina Alba.
The Blackhawks ended up coming in second during the soccer championships, a loss that was tough for them.
But Josefina Alba said winning is not the only reason Efren Alba and his teammates participate in the Special Olympics. They compete, she said, because they love interacting with friends and being a part of something special.
The end of the season can be very difficult for the players.
“I wish there was more out there for them to do, not just him, but for people who have a disability out there,” said Josefina Alba.
Jacob Weinschrott is a Class 1 Special Olympics coach for the Blackhawks Special Olympics soccer team.
This was his first year coaching the soccer team, and he said it was life-changing, not only for him but for the players.
“It is a great organization, it is a great time,” said Weinschrott. “Being able to form friendships and form skills is really important.”