Special Olympics athlete celebrates birthday while playing in basketball championships in Henrico
Special Olympics Virginia hosted its 2026 Basketball Championships this past weekend in Henrico, with roughly 1,000 athletes from across the Commonwealth competing in the two-day tournament.
David Thomason, president and CEO of Special Olympics Virginia, said the inclusive environment allows athletes to belong, succeed, and redefine their possibilities after often being told what they can't do.
"Our athletes are here because it's important to them to show us what they can do, and that's a long list of things, and it's on full display this weekend," he said.
For some athletes, the tournament holds special personal significance.
"Oh my goodness, I think playing basketball games on my birthday feels absolutely great," Kyle Roberts said. "And I'm definitely excited to be part of the Special Olympics. I am enjoying this... my [birthday] celebration for the Special Olympics basketball tournament."
Roberts had an exceptional day on the court, playing three games with his team, the Orange Flame Heat, and winning all three contests.
"We played such a great time," Roberts said. "A bunch of my teammates are so awesome. And a bunch of these opponents' teams are so great and I had a great time to play against these teams."
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