Dolphins Host Special Olympics Clinic At Team's Training Facility
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DAVIE (CBSMiami) – One day after announcing the contract extension for quarterback Ryan Tannehill the Miami Dolphins are shifting their attention back to the community.
The Dolphins are partnering with Special Olympics of Broward and Dade counties to promote physical fitness in the South Florida community.
The Miami Dolphins Special Olympics Clinic was held at the team training facility in Davie on Wednesday.
"This is the second time the Dolphins had our athletes come and work with the players. This is absolutely a fantastic event," Special Olympics Florida Board Chair Ron Fulop said. "I actually have a daughter who's a Special Olympian and I can tell you when they have an opportunity to partner with a professional sports athlete, it's just like virtually anybody in terms of we'll do whatever it takes to be exposed to these great athletes. For them to give us their time and their commitment to this is truly extraordinary and it's something that these athletes will remember for the rest of their lives."
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All 22 Dolphins rookies, along with general manager Dennis Hickey, played flag football games, ran through obstacle course stations and enjoyed a lunch with the Special Olympians.
More than 80 Special Olympics athletes in grades six through twelve participated in the event. They came from Homestead Middle, Homestead High, Our Pride Academy, Taravella High, Olson Middle and Jose Marti Park.
"It's about the Dolphins way – that's what we're about," said Hickey. "From Mr. Ross all the way on down. We're about giving back to the community. Our rookies do a great job, if you watch them out here. They're making that connection, having a great time. It's a bonding for them. It's also integrating them into what it takes to be a Miami Dolphin: playing on the field and winning games; but it's also giving back to the community."
"It was really fun coming out here with these kids," Dolphins first round draft pick DeVante Parker added. "They look up to us, and it's a great thing for us to come out here and participate with them and have fun with each other."
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