ORLANDO, Fla. — After celebratory opening ceremonies on Sunday, competition in the 2022 Special Olympics Games kicks off Monday, with a wide array of sporting events.
What You Need To Know
- Competition in the Special Olympics Games kick off in Orlando on Monday
- About 600 Florida athletes, including James Scholz, will compete
- Scholz is gearing up for the stand-up paddleboard event
- RELATED: The 2022 Special Olympics USA Games kick off in Orlando
About 125,000 spectators are expected to watch as more than 5,500 athletes and coaches, about 600 from Florida, will take part in the largest Special Olympics in the country’s history.
Among them will be stand-up paddleboard athlete James Scholz of Pinellas County and his coach and dad, Tim Scholz.
James Scholz suffered a brain injury and has autism, but as Tim Scholz put it, he also has a very competitive spirit.
Let the @SpecialOlympics games begin today! Here's Florida native & #paddleboard competitor, James Scholz. When asked who's his favorite athlete (who inspires him), he didn't hesitate, he named @RaysBaseball's @Brett_Phillips8 💥⚾️ #RaysUp #SpecialOlympics2022 @MyNews13 @BN9 pic.twitter.com/trwm6v6bo8
— Ashleigh Mills (@AshleighMNews) June 6, 2022
Special Olympics is something very dear to the Scholz family and others.
“It gives athletes like James, and you know, any of the athletes that may have cognitive ability, or disability, abilities to compete in events that they see a lot of their heroes,” Tim Scholz said.
James Scholz’ athletic hero represents Tampa Bay.
“The Hometown Hero for the (Tampa Bay) Rays, Brett Philips!” James Scholz said. “He’s one of my favorite baseball players.”
Paddle-boarding practice is set to begin Monday and continue every day until the competition begins Thursday.