The spirit of the day reflected the official Special Olympics athlete oath: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” The Banks County School System motto, Be Brave, Choose Kind, was showcased on this year’s t-shirt design created by Project Success. a program that allows participating students to apply and develop life and job skills through real projects. The program helps students build independence, confidence, and practical experience while contributing to the community.
Before athletes and buddies moved to the stands for the opening ceremony, participants gathered for the parade, which featured cheerleaders, the color guard, the band, and students from across the district.
The ceremony included the Pledge led by Brian Montano, a moment of silence led by Abel Reed, and the National Anthem performed by Nathan Wood, along with performances by the color guard, band, and cheerleaders.
One of the most meaningful parts of the morning was the torch run, which featured students representing each school. Special Education School Psychologist, Danny Hicks, officially opened the games. Hicks will retire at the end of this school year after serving many years in education, making his role in the ceremony especially significant.
Throughout the day, athletes participated in a variety of activities, including an egg hunt, jumping events, inflatables, sensory activities, and snow cones. Students also visited stations that provided snacks and special treats such as frozen custard, headbands, bracelets, snow cones, and sensory items from Special Olympics sponsors. The Banks County Sheriff’s Office was present throughout the day, and Tim Harper served as the emcee for the event.
Banks County Schools extends sincere thanks to the sponsors and supporters whose generosity helped make Special Olympics possible for athletes, families, and the entire school community. Special thanks to G & G Inflatables, Culver’s at Commerce, Document Destruction Services, Bulldog Chiropractic, Banks County Chamber CVB, Magnolia Motion Physical Therapy, Hidden Acres Wedding and Event Barn LLC, Intelligent Networks Inc., Purple Door Boutique, Commerce Country Cafe, Brandon Loggins at Edward Jones, Jackson EMC, Loons by LaLa, Home Depot at Commerce, Banks County Rotary, Nicholson Baptist Church, Redemption Outreach, Tim Harper, Banks County Clerk of Courts, The Whitlock Family, Piedmont Healthcare, Metro Site, Banks County Health Department, Kerry Group, Department of Public Safety, Banks County Sheriff’s Office, Toyota Automotive Compressor of Georgia, and everyone else who played a part in supporting this special day.
Special Education Director Dr. Stacia Dillin said, “This was my first Special Olympics in Banks County, and it was truly special. Our community showed up in a meaningful way to celebrate and support our students.”
Blair Loggins, Special Olympics Coordinator shared, “It was the perfect day in every way! Our athletes had a blast, our volunteers were amazing, and the weather was beautiful. We had 79 athletes compete, who earned a combined total of 237 medals. We are so thankful for our generous sponsors who have made this event possible for the past 11 years. Our t-shirts were a highlight of this year's event because they were made by several of our athletes through our very own Project Success - a program that provides work-based opportunities for our students with disabilities. A few of my favorite moments from the day included a nonverbal student participating in the opening ceremony with the help of his communication device, the smiles on the student’s faces as they received their medals, the sincere interactions between athletes and their buddies, and the way our school system and community came together to celebrate our students with disabilities! It was a beautiful day that left my heart full of joy - that's why we call it "The Best Day of the Year!"
Loggins also shared how special it was to have Danny Hicks present. “It was truly an honor to have Mr. Danny Hicks declare our 2026 games open. He has spent many years working with students with disabilities and their families, as well as teachers and staff in various schools. He has made a HUGE difference in the lives of so many of our students and has shown true dedication to improving the lives of students with disabilities.
Please contact your student's teacher for more photos.
For more information about Special Olympics, contact Blair Loggins at 706-677-2224 or [email protected]. For more information about Project Success, please contact Gatlin Boswell at 706-677-2221 or [email protected].