The teenage years can be tough especially if a child is different or has a disability.  But one Orange County high school is defying stereotypes after two seniors at West Orange High School with Down syndrome were nominated to the homecoming court.

Bubba Hunter, 18, won an arm wrestling match against Hayden Griffitts, the quarterback of the high school football team, on Wednesday afternoon. “I feel like I’m a pretty strong dude and he beats me sometimes,” said Griffitts.

And Bubba was also expected to beat the football star in the race for homecoming king.

Bubba and Semone Adkins are both seniors at West Orange High School with Down syndrome. Last week, they were nominated by the school to be in the homecoming court.

“We are not doing this because we feel bad for them or anything like that.  We are doing this because we genuinely like Bubba and Semone. They have high spirited and are nice people,” said Griffitts.

Friends say it’s their positive personalities that landed them the honor.

West Orange High School Senior Tyler Hartman is also in the homecoming court. “He (Bubba) doesn’t have a worry in the world.  He is never in a bad mood, ever,” said Hartman.

"I am trying to hold back tears.  It’s just overwhelming.  It’s just awesome for them,” said West Orange High School Teacher Assistant Michelle Cavanzon.

Jim Mattingly has taught Bubba and Semone for the past four years. “Our whole school was so excited.  They are just a breath of fresh air,” said Mattingly.

As classes switch and the courtyard is flooded with students you can see lots of hugs, high fives and more arm wrestling.

“He is always a high spirited guy and a nice, happy person and he brings people together,” said Griffitts

Bubba and Semone were elected king and queen during a ceremony Friday night.

The Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida said this is the first time teens with down syndrome have been nominated to the homecoming court in Central Florida.